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Tips to Send Secret Messages via Gmail on Android

Gmail is one of the most widely used email services, and with its availability on mobile devices like Android, it's easier than ever to send emails on the go. However, if you want to send secret messages that cannot be accessed by others, Gmail may not be your first choice. But did you know that there are some simple steps you can take to enhance the security of your messages when using Gmail on Android? In this post, we'll share some tips to help you send more private and confidential messages using Gmail on your Android device.

1. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

The first step in securing your emails is by enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Gmail account. This adds an extra layer of security to your account, making it harder for unauthorized users to access your messages. With 2FA, you'll need a verification code or a unique token whenever you sign in from an unfamiliar device.

To enable 2FA for your Gmail account:

  1. Go to your Google Account settings page.
  2. Select "Security" on the left-hand menu.
  3. Scroll down to "Signing in to Google," and click on "2-Step Verification."
  4. Follow the steps to set it up.

2. Use Gmail's Priority Inbox

Gmail's Priority Inbox is an excellent feature that helps you keep your important emails at the top of your inbox, making it easier for you to focus on what matters. However, it can also be used as a way to keep sensitive messages hidden from prying eyes by labeling them as priority.

To set up Priority Inbox and create custom labels:

  1. Open the Gmail app on your Android device.
  2. Tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top left corner of the screen, then select "Settings."
  3. Go to "Inbox," and choose "Priority."
  4. Now, go back to your inbox, and tap the three dots next to an email you'd like to label as priority.
  5. Tap "Move to" > "Priority."
  6. Create a new label for secret messages by going back to "Settings," then "Labels," and following the steps to create a new label.

3. Use Gmail's Encryption Feature

Gmail supports S/MIME encryption, which allows you to send and receive encrypted emails. This is an excellent feature for sending sensitive information securely, as the email will be unreadable if intercepted by unauthorized users.

To enable encryption and send encrypted messages:

  1. Go to your Gmail settings page on a computer.
  2. Click "See all settings," then go to "Advanced."
  3. Scroll down to "Enable S/MIME Cryptography," and click the switch to enable it.
  4. Install an S/MIME certificate for your email account from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).
  5. Configure your Android device's email client (like K-9 Mail) to support S/MIME encryption.

4. Use Signing Keys for Greater Security

Another way to secure your messages is by using signing keys. This allows you to verify the authenticity of emails that you receive, ensuring they haven't been tampered with during transit. Additionally, it also provides a way to digitally sign your emails, so the recipient knows the message came from you.

To set up signing keys for your Gmail account:

  1. Go to your Google Account settings page on a computer.
  2. Click "See all settings," then go to "Advanced."
  3. Scroll down to "Enable S/MIME Cryptography," and click the switch to enable it.
  4. Install an S/MIME certificate for your email account from a trusted Certificate Authority (CA).
  5. Generate a new private/public key pair using software like GPG or Thunderbird on your computer.
  6. Export your public key as a file and import it into your Google Account.
  7. Set up your Android device's email client to support signing keys.

5. Use a Secure Password Manager

Lastly, using a secure password manager is crucial for keeping all of your online accounts, including your Gmail account, protected. A good password manager will generate strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts and store them securely, so you don't have to remember them yourself.

To use a password manager on Android:

  1. Install a reputable password manager app like LastPass or 1Password.
  2. Create an account and set up the app.
  3. Add your Gmail account to the password manager and generate a strong, unique password.
  4. Use the password manager to access your Gmail account and other online services on your Android device.

Published August, 2018