In February Google launched two-factor authentication (2-step verification) which greatly improves the security of their sign-in system. This system will help fight unauthorized access to Google accounts--and reduce the instances of account hijacking, which plagued Gawker, as everyone probably remembers.
The two-factor authentication feature must be enabled in order for the extra security to take effect. Yes, it is a little bit of extra work, but the added measure of security makes up for it. The process requires two independent factors for authentication--similar to a banking website. Typically this process involves your password plus a text code obtained using your phone.