Gmail updates security features: here's what to choose when Google asks you

Google is updating the Gmail functionality related to privacy. Users will be offered a fundamental choice, and the quality of the mail service's security level will depend on the decision. This is reported by Newsweek, writes UNN.

Details

Given the introduction of a whole package of updates for Gmail, Google will soon send out emails to mail users. Subscribers will be encouraged to make a choice: choose options improved with artificial intelligence, which will require the use of personal data, or use a limited security version from Gmail.

While the decision may seem routine, it marks a significant shift in how the world's most popular mail service handles personal data and maintains the inbox.

What the new Gmail message means

The update is related to the implementation of AI-based mechanisms aimed at simplifying navigation in Gmail and searching for emails. The new system ranks search results based on factors such as the time the email was received, the frequency of interaction, and the frequency of clicking on certain messages. But for this, Gmail will need access to more data about user behavior and content.

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To meet privacy standards and give users more control, Google will now ask:

• allow Gmail to use AI-based tools by enabling "smart features" and data sharing;

Or

• opt out of using AI tools, which will limit certain features but better ensure data privacy.

What happens if you say "yes"

If the user enables functionality based on AI analysis, Gmail will continue to offer its latest updates based on artificial intelligence, including:

• intelligent search results based on user habits;

• access to "smart writing" and "smart reply" tools;

• best filtering of spam, phishing and advertising emails.

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However, consent also means that Google's artificial intelligence will analyze more activity in your mailbox, including message content and metadata, to personalize your experience. While Google states that this data is not used to display ads directly in Gmail, it may still be included in your ad profile on the company's platforms.

What happens if you choose "no"

Rejecting the update means that the user will still have access to the basic functions of Gmail, but will lose access to functions such as search with improved artificial intelligence and automatic suggestions. A mailbox without updated functionality may also seem slower or less intuitive when searching for old messages or organizing conversations.

On the other hand, Google has a smaller footprint of user data. Gmail will not process the content of messages or behavior as deeply, giving the user more control over email privacy.

Why this is important now

This update comes amid growing concerns about data privacy and AI transparency. While Google claims to block more than 99 percent of spam and phishing attempts, cybersecurity experts warn that AI-generated attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. At the same time, privacy advocates are raising the alarm about how much data is being processed behind the scenes.

Let us remind you

In the USA created at least 20 secret chats in Signal to coordinate security issues. The US national security team uses Signal to coordinate crisis situations, but experts are concerned about data leakage. Democrats have already launched an investigation into possible violations.