Google has launched a new client-side encryption feature for its Gmail and Calendar apps, offering enhanced security and privacy to users.
This feature encrypts data on the user’s device before sending it to Google’s servers, making it nearly impossible for anyone else to access.
With client-side encryption, users have greater control over their data and can rest assured that their sensitive information is protected from potential cyber threats.
The feature is easy to enable by installing a browser extension, setting up a key, and encrypting data before sending it.
Client-side encryption is crucial for data privacy and security, particularly for businesses and individuals who deal with sensitive information.
Google’s new feature provides users with the added benefits of enhanced security and privacy.
Key points:
- Why client-side encryption is crucial for data privacy and security
- How to enable client-side encryption for Gmail and Calendar
Why Client-Side Encryption is Crucial for Data Privacy and Security
Client-side encryption is a security technique that encrypts data on the user’s device before sending it to a server. This differs from server-side encryption, which encrypts data after it has been sent to the server. While server-side encryption provides some level of security, it is not as secure as client-side encryption because the data is vulnerable to attacks while in transit.
According to Robert Giannini, CEO of Giaspace, offering IT services Fort Lauderdale businesses depend on, “Client-side encryption is a critical step towards improving user data privacy and security. By encrypting data on the user’s device, we can ensure that sensitive data remains secure even if it is intercepted in transit.”
Lisa Mitchell, President of Progressive Computer Systems, a managed IT services provider in Chapel Hill, NC, adds, “Client-side encryption is a game-changer for businesses that deal with sensitive data. With this feature, we can offer our clients the peace of mind that their data is protected from cyber threats and potential data breaches.”
Ed Anderson, CEO of Dyrand Systems, a cloud-based IT services provider out of Vancouver, notes, “Client-side encryption gives users greater control over their data and helps to improve their privacy. With this feature, users can rest assured that their sensitive data is protected from third-party services and hackers.”
How to Enable Client-Side Encryption for Gmail and Calendar
Enabling client-side encryption for Gmail and Calendar is easy. Here are the steps to follow:
- Install the Browser Extension First. Users need to install the browser extension. The extension is available for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge browsers. Go to the Chrome Web Store, Firefox Add-ons, or the Edge Add-ons page, and search for the extension.
- Set up a Key Once the extension is installed, users must set up a key to encrypt and decrypt their data. Choosing a strong and unique password that can be remembered is important.
- Encrypt Data To encrypt data, select the text that needs to be encrypted, and click the encrypt button in the toolbar. The encrypted text will be replaced with a block of random characters.
- Decrypt Data To decrypt data, select the encrypted text, and click the decrypt button in the toolbar. Users will be prompted to enter their key, and once the key is entered, the encrypted text will be replaced with the original text.
In Conclusion
Client-side encryption is crucial for data privacy and security, particularly for businesses and individuals dealing with sensitive information. With Google’s new feature, users can have greater control over their data and rest assured that it is protected from potential cyber threats. Following these simple steps, users can enable client-side encryption for Gmail and Calendar and enjoy enhanced security and privacy.
