Google streamlines Search Console ownership management, enhancing security and control

Google today announced updates to Google Search Console's user and permission management interface. These improvements focus on handling unused ownership tokens, bolstering security and giving website owners more precise control over access to their Search Console data.

Ownership tokens are unique codes used to verify website ownership within Search Console and other Google products like Merchant Center. Leaving these tokens in place after a user, such as a former employee or contractor, no longer requires access can pose security risks. February 2023 saw initial refinements to the user and permissions management report, and now these latest upgrades enhance the ability to manage and verify the removal of unused tokens.

Key Changes and How They Benefit You

• Improved Accuracy: The updated process increases accuracy in detecting truly unused ownership tokens, preventing unnecessary alerts or false positives.
• Clearer Verification: Website owners can now directly verify in Search Console if an unused ownership token has been successfully removed from their site. This provides additional peace of mind and confirms access has been properly revoked.

How to Manage Unused Ownership Tokens

1. Access the Interface: Go to the "Users and permissions interface" within your Search Console property.
2. Identify Unused Tokens: Click on "Unused ownership tokens."
3. Initiate Removal: Select the relevant tokens and click "Remove."
4. Confirm Removal: Choose "Verify removal" to receive an update and ensure the unused token is indeed no longer present on your site.