One-Line Flow:
You’re not “securing Gmail” — you’re putting it in digital daycare with your other Gmail as the overprotective parent.
How to Actually Lock Gmail (2025-Style)
I still don’t trust Gmail.
But if you’re stuck with it, here’s how to baby-proof it — and skip that 7-day cooldown for recovery changes.
Step 1: Kick Out the Clutter
Ask the seller to check Google Settings → Brand Accounts.
If anything pops up, hit delete.
No nostalgia. No mercy.
Step 2: Match the Money Zone
Go to Google Settings → Payments.
- If there’s a payment profile, make sure the country matches your own Gmail’s country.
- If not, delete it and make a new one.
- If neither has one, congrats — you’re already lazy in the right way.
Both accounts must share the same country/region. Google likes things neat — like a tax auditor with OCD.
Step 3: Activate Parent Mode
Change the OGE’s (original Gmail) birthday to under 13 years old.
Google will freak out and say, “We need a parent.”
Perfect. You’re the parent now.
Use your personal Gmail as the supervisor.
Pick “Yes, ask me every time” so no one can log in without your permission.
Add your recovery info, turn on 2FA, and boom — the OGE can’t even sneeze without your nod.
You’ve just made Gmail your child.
Enjoy the control issues.
Got questions?
Drop them below — I’ll answer until Google blocks me for being too honest.
!