Hello, Department of Redundancy Department, Hello? When it comes to security, you can never be too redundant. Rick Klau, YouTube product manager, drafted up this useful guide to Google Account security, which lists out a number of actions users can undertake to make sure their Google Account is as safe and secure as possible. Given the reach of Google, these tips are likely to benefit almost every web-izen out there, so head on over to Lifehacker to get the full scoop. Or hit the highlights here:

1. Pick a strong password for your Google Account  – Tips here  for doing so

2. Make sure your Google Account recovery options are set – account recovery options page here  – this  includes your backup email address and mobile phone number.

3. Set up Two Step Authentication on your Google Account. Details are here , set it up by starting at this link. You will need to connect it with a mobile device – the download and instructions for setting that up are at this page.

4. Following the two step verification set up, may need to change your phone and app passwords that are communicating with Google. Google has an “application specific password” — can be set up here (see the bottom of the page: “application specific passwords”). There is a password generator, which you can then type into your phone or application’s password field for your account.

5. Take stock of which applications and services have been authorized for access to your Google Account. The list is here

6. Set up a passcode for your Phone. Now.

Klau also lists some security “best practices” – more generalized approaches to online security vis a vis Google that will heighten yours. Most are common-sense, but it never hurts to brush up with a refresher course. Hit the jump above to Lifehacker for more details on the whys of it.

1. Try and use your Google Account when you log in to other services.

2. NEVER manually type your Google account information (username/password) into a webpage that is not owned/provided by Google.

3. Keep an eye on Gmail’s “last account activity” feature if you’re concerned that someone else may be accessing your account. Look at the bottom of the page in Gmail at the “last account activity” link.

4. Don’t email sensitive files as attachments.

5. Don’t send passwords in email.

Thanks Rick!