I'm an expert in digital services and online account management. I've been assisting users with their account-related queries for several years. It's important to note that permanently closing a Gmail account is a significant decision, as it involves deleting all emails and data associated with that account. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Backup Your Data: Before you proceed with closing your Gmail account, it's crucial to back up any important emails, contacts, and other data you wish to keep. You can export your emails to an external email client or save them to your computer.
2. Sign in to Your Google Account: Navigate to the Google Account settings page by typing `myaccount.google.com` in your browser's address bar and signing in with your Gmail credentials.
3. Access Account Preferences: Once you're in the Google Account settings, scroll down to the "Data & personalization" section and click on "Delete your account or services."
4. Choose the Account to Delete: In the "Delete a Google Account" section, you will see an option to delete either your primary account or a secondary account. Choose the Gmail account you wish to delete.
5. Enter Your Password: You'll be prompted to enter your Gmail password to verify your identity.
6. Confirm Deletion: After entering your password, you'll be asked to confirm that you want to delete the account. Keep in mind that this action is irreversible and will permanently erase all data associated with the account.
7.
Click on Delete Products: If you only want to delete Gmail and keep other Google services, click on "Delete Products" instead of "Delete account."
8.
Select Gmail: From the list of Google services, select Gmail to proceed with its deletion.
9.
Final Confirmation: You'll be asked to provide a reason for deleting your Gmail account and to confirm that you understand the consequences.
10.
Wait for the Deletion Process: Google may take up to 30 days to delete your account completely.
Remember, deleting your Gmail account will also delete any associated Google services, such as Google Drive, Google Photos, and Google Calendar. Make sure you've backed up any important data before proceeding.
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