Hi everyone,
After reviewing your feedback, we want to share the new Free Inactive Account Policy.
Why does Proton need an inactivity policy?
Inactive data stored on Proton servers increases the risk of abuse and the operating cost for everyone in the community. The updated policy ensures that we:
- Offer the best services to our active users
- Manage our resources in a sustainable way
- Protect all users who need Proton Privacy products
As many of you know, Proton is a community-funded organization providing free access to our services to millions around the world. We do not have venture capital funding or advertising profits, making our user subscriptions our only source of revenue.
What is the new policy?
Free inactive accounts and all data associated with them will be deleted after one year.
How do I keep my account active?
Subscribers are automatically considered active.
Users on a free plan need to log in or use our services once every 12 months. If you are already logged in, you should use one of our products at least once every 12 months (for example, access your inbox, read an email, connect to a VPN server, etc.).
For Proton Mail, activity is considered by Account, not by email address. Keeping an active Account ensures that any email addresses you created for that Account (@proton.me, @pm.me, etc.) also remain active.
If you are subject to insurmountable circumstances that won't allow you to stay active on your account for 12 months, please get in touch with Customer Support.
When does it start?
There will be a one-year grace period before the new policy takes place on April, 9, 2026, providing two years of inactivity to current free users.
When will I be notified?
Notifications will be sent to your recovery email 30, 15, and 7 days before any action is taken.
Thank you for providing your feedback in building this policy and let us know if you have any questions about it.
— Proton Team