There are multiple ways to send encrypted emails in Gmail, depending on your specific needs and type of Gmail account:
- For personal Gmail users:
- Use Gmail's Confidential Mode: When composing an email, click the lock icon with a clock at the bottom (Confidential Mode). You can set an expiration date and require an SMS passcode for extra security. This mode restricts forwarding, copying, printing, and downloading of the email content but does not truly encrypt the email end-to-end.
* Use third-party encryption tools like the Virtru Chrome extension, which integrates with Gmail and allows for encrypted sending where the message is securely encrypted and the recipient may need to use a secure viewer to read it.
- For Google Workspace users (business, education accounts):
- Enable S/MIME encryption: Requires an admin to enable S/MIME and users to upload personal certificates. Emails sent between users with S/MIME will be encrypted end-to-end. This method requires certificate management and setup by an admin.
* Newer client-side encryption (CSE) in Google Workspace allows end-to-end encrypted emails to be sent to any inbox without complex certificate exchange. Gmail automatically manages encryption keys, and non-Gmail users receive secure access invitations.
Summary of how to send encrypted email in Gmail:
Method| Who it’s for| Encryption type| Setup required| How to send
---|---|---|---|---
Confidential Mode| Personal Gmail users| Limited protection/filtering (not
full encryption)| None| Compose email, click lock icon, set options, send
Virtru or other extensions| Personal or business users| End-to-end encryption|
Install browser extension| Compose email, toggle Virtru encryption, send
S/MIME (Google Workspace)| Business/Education accounts| End-to-end encryption|
Admin enables feature, users upload certs| Compose email; Gmail encrypts based
on certs
Client-Side Encryption (CSE)| Google Workspace enterprises| Advanced end-to-
end encryption| Admin setup, no cert management needed| Compose email;
encryption automatic, recipient accesses securely
The easiest option for most users is the Gmail Confidential Mode or installing a third-party extension like Virtru. For organizations, S/MIME or CSE provides stronger encryption and control. If needed, instructions can be provided for any specific method above. Would you prefer setup guides for personal Gmail, Google Workspace S/MIME, or third-party tools?
