End-to-end encryption is now available in Gmail on web browsers, and Google has begun a beta for client-side encryption in Gmail. In a blog post on Friday, the company announced the beta, which Workspace admins can sign up for until January 20th. Recently, Google rolled out a unified Gmail interface widely.
The client-side encryption feature is now in beta and can be used by Gmail users on the web. The new client-side encryption for Gmail Web will render all user data and attachments unreadable by any third party, including Google. Thus, all sensitive user data contained in email attachments will be more secure.
End-to-end encryption in Gmail
End-to-end encryption in Gmail ensures that users’ email communications are encrypted by the sender and can only be decrypted by the intended recipient on their device. No third party, organization, or even Google’s own email server can decode or read the messages and attachments sent with the email.
After enabling the functionality and configuring the workspace, users will have an additional choice while using the web version of Gmail. When the padlock is clicked, users will be given the option to enable extra encryption for messages. However, some capabilities, including a signature, the ability to use emoji, and Smart Compose, could well be compromised in exchange.
Users that wish to encrypt will be under the authority of administrators. This function extends beyond internal communications in the office. According to a Google support page, users will be able to send encrypted emails to anyone outside of their organization, including those who use Apple or Microsoft email clients or other email services.
Availability
- The feature will only be available to users with Google Workspace Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, or Education Standard accounts. Users with Google Workspace Essentials or personal Google Accounts will not be able to access it.
- Google says that this Client-Side Encryption (CSE) will be added to the Gmail app for Android and iOS in a future update.
Customers of Google Workspace Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, and Education Standard can apply for the beta programme until January 20, 2023.
Announcing its availability, Google said that:
Google Workspace already uses the latest cryptographic standards to encrypt all data at rest and in transit between our facilities. Client-side encryption helps strengthen the confidentiality of your data while helping to address a broad range of data sovereignty and compliance needs.