Gmail’s Privacy Risks: Gmail scans emails for ads and shares data with third parties, compromising user privacy.
Secure Alternatives: Services like Proton Mail and Tutanota offer end-to-end encryption for safe communication.
User-Friendly Options: Zoho Mail and StartMail provide privacy, ad-free inboxes, and easy-to-use interfaces.
Gmail is the most widely used email service provider. However, the application is known to scan the emails for ads and share user information. Other email services like ProtonMail and Tutanota are better at keeping data safe with encryption and user-focused features. Let's consider why Gmail isn't the best and what other email options are available to users for a private inbox.
Gmail is convenient, and many people use it. However, it isn't the best when it comes to maintaining privacy. Google takes a peek at your emails so it can target ads and personalize your experience.
Additionally, the company shares user data with third parties if the law requires it. While Gmail offers some security features, its data collection practices seem concerning and a threat to privacy. It can lead to many online risks; thus, having a secure email is just plain smart to keep personal and work details safe.
Also Read: Best Email Hosting Services for Reliability and Performance
Several email services use encryption features to secure email data and prioritize users' needs. Here are some of the best email services that care about privacy more than Gmail does:
Based in Switzerland, ProtonMail uses end-to-end encryption and cannot even access users’ emails. Its Plus plan costs Rs. 500/month and comes with 15GB of storage and a clean design. ProtonMail is an excellent choice for professionals or anyone who wants solid privacy.
Tutanota is based in Germany. The tool encrypts your emails and contacts. It offers a free plan with 1GB of storage and a premium plan starting at Rs. 200/month. Since it's open-source and ad-free, it's well-suited for people who need secure ways to communicate.
Zoho Mail is a popular choice in India that combines privacy with tools to help you get your work done. Its Rs. 100/month plan gives you 5GB of storage and doesn't track ads. The platform works well with Zoho's other apps and is best-suited for startups or self-employed people.
StartMail comes from the Netherlands. It encrypts the emails and lets users use fake email addresses to protect their identity. It costs Rs. 600/month and gives you 10GB of storage and a simple design.
Posteo is another service from Germany that costs Rs. 100/month for 2GB of storage and end-to-end encryption. The company is eco-friendly and doesn't track your data. This is good for students or anyone wanting a cheap, private option.
Moving from Gmail to another service provider involves these simple steps. Here's what to do:
Pick an email service provider
Sign up and create an account
Import your contacts from Gmail
Here's how to switch over:
Forward: Have Gmail send all fresh emails straight to your new inbox, where all is secured.
Update Everything: Change your email on all your accounts and sites.
Test it Out: Send a few test emails to make sure everything works as expected.
The entire process might take an hour or more to set up, but it's worth it to get a private inbox.
To get the most out of your new email, users can follow these tips:
Use Strong Passwords: Use a complex password for your account.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication: For added security.
Encryption: Learn how to send encrypted emails.
Here's what to watch out for:
Stop using Gmail and switch to a more secure email.
If free plans are limited, upgrade to get more storage.
Keep copies of your important emails.
Also Read: Gmail Offline Mode: How to Access Emails Without Internet?
With online attacks getting more frequent, protecting your email is important. Unlike Gmail, safe services don't scan your emails or sell your data. They're affordable and offer encryption to keep hackers out.
1. Why isn’t Gmail considered private?
Gmail scans emails for ads and data analytics, which compromises user privacy compared to end-to-end encrypted alternatives.
2. What’s the best secure email alternative to Gmail?
ProtonMail offers end-to-end encryption and zero-knowledge storage, ensuring high privacy for emails.
3. Is there a free, secure email service to replace Gmail?
Tutanota provides a free tier with end-to-end encryption and 1GB storage, ideal for basic secure email needs.
4. Which secure email is best for business use?
Zoho Mail combines strong encryption with business-friendly features like custom domains and team collaboration tools.
5. Can I get a secure email with an anonymous sign-up?
CTemplar allows anonymous sign-up with no personal data required, prioritizing privacy and security.