Today, Google announced that going forward, all emails coming and going through their Gmail servers will use an encrypted HTTPS connection. Since its launch many years ago, Gmail has supported HTTPS, and the protocol was set by default in 2010, but this new move will ensure to users that messages they are sending and receiving are secure (“100 percent of them”). Google notes that this move became a top priority “after last summer’s revelations.”
The encryption is intact not only when messages move between you and Gmail’s servers, but also as they cruise through Google’s data centers.
In addition to HTTPS encryption, Google recommends setting strong passwords, as well as looking into 2-step verification for accounts you want extra secure.
Here is an excerpt from Google’s post about the recent change.
Today’s change means that no one can listen in on your messages as they go back and forth between you and Gmail’s servers—no matter if you’re using public WiFi or logging in from your computer, phone or tablet.
In addition, every single email message you send or receive—100 percent of them—is encrypted while moving internally. This ensures that your messages are safe not only when they move between you and Gmail’s servers, but also as they move between Google’s data centers—something we made a top priority after last summer’s revelations.
Now go forth, emailing with complete privacy.
Via: Google