Google automatically links phone numbers to multiple Android accounts

Google is automatically verifying and linking Android users' phone numbers to every Google account signed into a device. This process, performed via Google Play Services, occurs without explicit prior consent from the user. Reports indicate that the service also collects SIM card identifiers and device metadata during this synchronization.

Users may receive notification emails from 'noreply-phone-verification@google.com' confirming the association. Google justifies this automatic verification as a measure to support security features, such as account recovery and emergency location services, as well as communication tools like RCS messaging and Quick Share.

To prevent future linking, users can navigate to their device settings under Google services and preferences to disable automatic phone number verification. However, disabling this setting does not automatically disconnect phone numbers from accounts that have already been linked; those must be managed manually through the Google Account Personal Info page.