Google has announced a set of new security tools designed to streamline the account recovery process in cases of breaches or forgotten passwords. The standout feature is Recovery Contacts, which allows users to designate trusted individuals — friends or family members — who can verify their identity and assist in regaining access to their accounts.

This feature is available for personal Google accounts and can be found in the Security section. While the company does not disclose specific technical details about the verification process, it emphasizes that this is a "simple and secure method for recovery when standard options fail."

Another new feature is Sign in with Mobile Number. This Android functionality allows for automatic identification of a Google account based on the linked phone number. It will be useful for those who have lost their device and are trying to access their account on a new smartphone. Instead of entering a password, the system will request the screen lock code from the previous device.

The updates are part of a broader strategy by the company to enhance user protection against fraud and hacking attempts. Among other new tools are warnings in Google Messages about potentially dangerous links in spam messages and Key Verifier, which aids in verifying contacts and avoiding scams.