Gmail is on the verge of a significant change with the potential introduction of a new feature called “Shielded Email,” according to Android Authority. Google aims to help its two billion Gmail users protect their primary email addresses while navigating the increasing landscape of online data threats. Scheduled updates could allow users to create unique email addresses that automatically forward messages to their main accounts, mirroring Apple’s successful “Hide My Email” feature.
What is a Shielded Email?
Google’s latest initiative, which appears to be part of a broader push to close the privacy gap with competitors like Apple, comes amid rising concerns about email security. The decision was not announced alongside other privacy enhancements this year, but it could significantly alter how users interact with email. According to reports from Android Authority, the feature was discovered in the latest teardown of Google Play Services, revealing strings of code referencing Shielded Email and its intended functionality.
The Shielded Email feature aims to generate single-use or limited-use email aliases, addressing a common concern among users who fear spam or data breaches when sharing their email addresses. By using these generated email addresses, users can maintain privacy and avoid unwanted communications from less reputable sources. When filling out forms or signing up for online services, users can opt to use these aliases instead of exposing their real email addresses.
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This concept is not entirely new; Apple has established a successful precedent with its Hide My Email function, which allows users to create random email addresses that forward to their iCloud accounts. The design of Shielded Email appears to focus specifically on Android and may integrate with features like Autofill and Google Password Manager. While it remains unclear whether Google will charge for these aliases, the potential for monetization exists, possibly tying it to Google One subscriptions.
Shielded Email will be particularly useful during high-traffic shopping seasons when scammers increase their activities, frequently using phony emails to solicit sensitive information. Recent alerts from law enforcement warn of the dangers posed by increased phishing attempts, especially as the holiday season approaches. Cybercriminals are using sophisticated methods to evade detection, including malicious image attachments that can bypass existing security measures.
Once implemented, Shielded Email could provide a crucial defense against the growing number of phishing attacks. Some of these attacks exploit the simplicity of email as a communication method, prompting users to click on links or download attachments that appear legitimate. Adopting cloaked email addresses allows users to identify potential scams, as any misuse of these temporary addresses can be directly traced back to where they were shared.
Reports have highlighted that the increasing complexity of cyber threats mandates more robust defenses, notably for mobile users. With mobile phishing, or “mishing,” attacks becoming more prevalent, the urgency for secure email solutions is more critical than ever. Zimperium’s Nico Chiaraviglio noted that the evolution of mobile security is essential, as many attacks can begin through phishing lures shared via email or social media messaging apps.
If Google moves forward with Shielded Email, it could provide Android users with tools to better manage their online privacy and protect against spam and scams. However, the rollout strategy remains a critical consideration, particularly regarding which devices will receive the updates first.
Featured image credit: Solen Feyissa/Unsplash
