Skip to Content

Client-side Encryption for Gmail in Beta

By: Author Alex Lim

Posted on Last updated:

Home > Client-side Encryption for Gmail in Beta

Updated on 2022-12-22: Client-side encryption for Gmail

Google is adding E2EE support for Gmail’s web client. The feature is currently available for Google Workspace users via a beta program. Users allowed in the beta trial will be able to send and receive encrypted emails within and outside their email domain. It’s unclear when this will become available for regular Gmail personal accounts. Read more: Client-side encryption for Gmail available in beta

Google is adding E2EE support for Gmail's web client.

Overview

Some Gmail users will now have access to client-side encryption. The feature is/will be available in beta. Google says that Workspace Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, and Education Standard customers are eligible to apply for the beta until January 20th, 2023. Client-side encryption is already available for Google Drive, Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Google Meet, and Google Calendar (beta).

Note

  • This is encryption at rest. You need to setup a key management service which will then be used to generate keys to encrypt your data at rest, preventing Google from accessing it. Be aware of what access the service provider has for key recovery anyone with that roll can decrypt your data. Even with this configured you still need to take added steps to achieve end to end encryption, (such as using S/MIME or PGP) allowing only the intended recipients to access your message.
  • We know that persistent encryption of data is needed to minimize the impact of data breaches, so good to see Google joining Apple in pushing it forward. However, business use of persistent encryption requirements trustable identities (not reusable password-based), trustable directories, trustable backup processes and effective client side policy enforcement since network-based approaches to data policy enforcement can be blinded.

Read more in

Alex Lim is a certified IT Technical Support Architect with over 15 years of experience in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex IT systems and networks. He has worked for leading IT companies, such as Microsoft, IBM, and Cisco, providing technical support and solutions to clients across various industries and sectors. Alex has a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the National University of Singapore and a master’s degree in information security from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is also the author of several best-selling books on IT technical support, such as The IT Technical Support Handbook and Troubleshooting IT Systems and Networks. Alex lives in Bandar, Johore, Malaysia with his wife and two chilrdren. You can reach him at [email protected] or follow him on Website | Twitter | Facebook

    Ads Blocker Image Powered by Code Help Pro

    Your Support Matters...

    We run an independent site that is committed to delivering valuable content, but it comes with its challenges. Many of our readers use ad blockers, causing our advertising revenue to decline. Unlike some websites, we have not implemented paywalls to restrict access. Your support can make a significant difference. If you find this website useful and choose to support us, it would greatly secure our future. We appreciate your help. If you are currently using an ad blocker, please consider disabling it for our site. Thank you for your understanding and support.