Google Gemini now scans Gmail messages – here’s how to disable it

Google shared a new update on Nov. 5, confirming that Gemini Deep Research can now use context from your Gmail, Drive and Chat. This allows the AI to pull information from your messages, attachments and stored files to support your research.

Some people view this as a convenience. They like the idea of faster answers and easier searches. If you feel that way, too, that is completely fine.

However, many people do not want AI scanning private messages or personal documents. If that sounds like you, there is good news. You can turn these features off with a few quick taps in Gmail.

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Google’s new update allows Gemini to scan Gmail. These steps help you take control of your privacy. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Why this update matters

This feature gives Google permission to scan every email in your Gmail account. That includes personal notes, financial documents, tax files and any sensitive information in your inbox. AI looks for patterns to improve responses, but Google says Gmail content is not used to train the Gemini model and that no user settings were changed automatically.  

Google also says that Gmail, Docs and Sheets are not used for AI training unless you directly give Gemini that content yourself.

While Google says the feature improves your experience, some users prefer more control. You may want privacy first and convenience second. If so, you can opt out today.

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How to stop AI from scanning your Gmail

You can turn this off directly in Gmail settings. Follow these steps:

Open Gmail to start the process of turning off AI features. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• Tap the gear icon in the top right

Tap the gear icon to access your main Gmail settings. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Select See all settings to reach the full menu. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• Scroll until you find Smart Features
• Turn off Smart features by clicking it off.

Scroll until you find Smart features and personalization.  (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• It will ask you to click “Turn off and reload.” 

Turn off Smart features to reduce scanning across your inbox. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• Now, scroll to Google Workspace smart features and click “Manage Workspace smart feature settings.”

Go to Google Workspace smart features for the next control. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• Turn off both checkboxes and then click Save. 

Turn off both checkboxes to stop extra data scanning. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

• A pop-up will appear in the bottom left-hand corner of the screen that says “Your preferences have been saved.” 

Watch for the confirmation pop up that tells you the changes are active. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Once you switch these off, Gmail stops scanning your messages for smart features or AI enhancements. This returns control to you.

What happens when you turn it off

After you disable these settings, features like smart email suggestions may stop working. That includes predictive text, automatic bill reminders and quick booking prompts. You can always turn them back on if you change your mind.

Turning these off does not break Gmail. Your inbox works the same. You simply gain more privacy while you use it.

Want a more private inbox?

If you’d rather keep your email fully separate from AI features, you may want to consider a privacy-focused email service. They don’t scan your messages or use your inbox to train any systems. Everything stays private and encrypted.

For people who want more control over their digital privacy, these private and secure email providers offer a straightforward way to keep email activity protected. They give you peace of mind knowing your messages aren’t being analyzed in the background.

For recommendations on private and secure email providers, visit Cyberguy.com.

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Google’s newest update blends convenience with automation. It can simplify research by tapping into your Gmail, Drive and Chat. Still, many people want a clear boundary between AI tools and personal messages. With a few quick steps, you can keep your inbox private without losing access to core Gmail features. Just keep in mind: Google says Gmail content isn’t used to train Gemini unless you explicitly give that content to the AI.

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Do you think AI tools should have access to your messages by default or should companies ask before scanning anything? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

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