In December 2018, Google announced the decision to shut down its social media platform, Google+.In February, the internet giant sent an email outlining steps to remove photos, videos, and other data from the platform. The deadline for the moves was April 2019. In September 2018, BCI Media Services made the decision to discontinue GooglePlus services for our clients. However, we understand that many of our clients still have Google+ accounts. We want to make sure that you are prepared for the changes ahead. Here is what you need to know about the end of the platform.
What happened?
Google+ was launched in 2011 as a response to the gaining popularity of social media moguls like Facebook. Unfortunately, the platform never gained much popularity. Low numbers and statistics are a contributing factor as to why Google+ is choosing to shut down. Within the last year, several social media networks have come under scrutiny for increased data breaches. While most people have heard of the Facebook and Cambridge Analytica breach, another breach within Google+ occurred in March 2018. That breach exposed the private data of up to 500,000 users. The announcement to shut down Google+ came on October 8, 2018. The same day the Wall Street Journal published an article on Google’s data breach.
How does this affect my business?
First of all, it is important to understand that the shutdown of Google+ will have no impact on other aspects of your Google accounts. Google My Business, Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Photos will all remain the same. For many businesses, the loss of this platform should not be too big of an issue. Our team at BCI Media Services is here to help you find the best solution for your digital marketing needs. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the loss of Google+ contact us today.
What’s next?
Make sure that all of your personal items are exported from the platform prior to April 2nd. This tutorial provides the simplest way to export your data. After you have removed and saved the data from the platform that you wish to keep, then it’s time to delete your account. Once your account is deleted, then you will have successfully removed yourself from Google+ and can say farewell forever.
With Google+ leaving, we lose one social media platform. However, BCI Media Services offers other social media options that include Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. To discuss the best social media options for you and your business, contact your Sales Rep or email [email protected].