Sign in with a video selfie
Google is adding a new way to access your Google account. From now on, you can set up a selfie video as an additional login method. The feature is intended as an alternative for situations where, for example, you don’t have access to your usual phone or computer, or if you’ve been locked out of your account. With this new option, Google aims to offer users more ways to securely regain access to their account.
According to Google, setting up a video selfie is straightforward. You look into your device’s camera and follow a few brief instructions, moving your head from different angles. This creates a video that can later be used to verify your identity.
Should you have any problems logging in in future, simply record another selfie video. Google will compare this new recording with the video you previously saved. If everything matches, you’ll be able to regain access to your account. We’re familiar with this feature from various banking apps, such as Revolut.
Privacy
Google emphasises that the selfie video remains entirely under your control. The video is only stored once you have given your consent, and you can delete it at any time via your Google account.
In addition, the company states that the video is used exclusively to verify your identity when you log in, unless you give your consent for it to be used for other purposes. The stored footage is kept encrypted, ensuring it remains secure even whilst in storage.
Protection against fake videos
As facial recognition is increasingly being targeted for misuse, Google has built in multiple layers of security. For example, the system not only checks whether the new selfie matches the stored video, but also requires you to perform a few simple movements. This allows Google to determine that the video is genuine and recorded live, rather than a photo or a deepfake.
In addition, existing security measures remain in place to detect and block suspicious login attempts. The selfie video does not replace existing login options, but is added as an extra option. Google still advises users to set up multiple methods to maintain access to their account.
According to Google, this new feature makes it easier to regain access to your account if you unexpectedly lose access to your trusted device. The feature is available from today for eligible accounts. Users can check within their Google account to see if they can already set up the new sign-in method.
