An alert of significance has been issued to numerous Gmail users, prompting attention for those averse to the notion of artificial intelligence quickly scanning through their emails. This latest warning was shared online by Lori Greiner, an American television personality and entrepreneur.
Over the past weekend, the star of Shark Tank posted a message on Instagram urging Gmail account holders to take note. The message emphasized the importance of sharing the information with friends and family to ensure their safety and awareness.
The concern revolves around Google’s introduction of new AI smart features meant to analyze emails and provide functions such as intelligent searches, contextual responses, and email digests. While Google asserts that it does not read messages for personal use, Greiner expressed apprehension about the situation.
In her Instagram post, the celebrity emphasized the urgency of the situation for Gmail users. She highlighted that Google has been allowing AI to scan all emails, including financial documents, tax details, and personal conversations, without explicit user consent.
For those feeling uneasy about this practice, there is a straightforward method to disable the setting. Greiner reassured users that it only takes 30 seconds to turn off AI scanning in Gmail.
To deactivate AI in Gmail, users should navigate to Settings and select “see all settings.” Subsequently, locate the “Smart features” option and disable it for Gmail, Chat, and Meet. This action will cease Google from scanning email content.
Additionally, users are advised to uncheck the boxes for Workspace and other products under “Manage Workspace Smart Features” to further restrict data usage for AI.
Google maintains that personal data remains inaccessible to its team or external parties, ensuring the security of users’ information. The tech giant clarified that Gemini, one of its AI models, operates on isolated tasks in Gmail without storing personal data beyond necessary requests.
Nevertheless, for individuals uncomfortable with AI processes, it may be prudent to deselect the smart features option in Gmail settings.