There is now a new way to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access. Confidential Mode in Gmail, a new feature which was announced some days back is available on Android, IOS and on the web; recipients will not be able to forward, copy, print and download messages marked as Confidential.
The security feature allows Gmail users to set expiration dates for messages and revoke access to same messages at any time. As tight as the feature is, recipients will still be able to screenshot messages and attachments as this is a normal feature on mobile devices as well as on a computer.
How to use Confidential Mode in Gmail on PC
- Open your Gmail and click on Compose
- The Confidential Mode option is the last icon which appears in the bottom right corner of the Compose window.

- Click to turn it on.
- Gmail gives you the option to set expiration date and input a passcode. All settings you make here affects the email content and its attachments.

- If you do not use an SMS passcode, recipients with the Gmail app can open the mail directly, those who not use the app will be sent a passcode. If you chose the second option to use SMS passcode, recipients will receive a passcode by SMS. As of now, SMS passcodes can only be added to phone numbers in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, India and Japan.
- Click on
Should you change your mind as to the expiration date for the already sent mail, you can go to Sent, open the Confidential mail you sent and click on Remove access.
How to use Confidential Mode in Gmail on Android
- Open the Gmail app on your android phone or tablet.
- Compose a new mail
- Tap More in the top right corner to bring out Confidential mode.
- Turn on Confidential Mode.
- Fall all other steps as described in the process for PC.
How to use Confidential Mode in Gmail on IOS
- Open the Gmail app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Compose a new mail
- Tap More in the top right corner to bring out Confidential mode.
- Turn on Confidential Mode.
- Fall all other steps as described in the process for PC.


