Google Workspace Adds Client-Side Encryption for Gmail in Beta

Google has launched a public beta of client-side encryption for Gmail on the web. Once enabled for eligible Google Workspace customers, client-side encryption will give Gmail users the ability to send and receive encrypted emails.

“Google Workspace already uses the latest cryptographic standards to encrypt all data at rest and in transit between our facilities. Client-side encryption helps strengthen the confidentiality of your data while helping to address a broad range of data sovereignty and compliance needs,” the company explained.

Client-side encryption for Gmail on the web works for emails sent within your domain and outside of your domain. However, all recipients will need to have client-side encryption turned on and valid certificates to receive encrypted emails.

Google Workspace already supports client-side encryption for Google Drive, Google Meet, and Google Calendar on the web. For Gmail, client-side encryption. will encrypt the body of emails, inline images, and attachments, but email headers, subjects, and recipient lists aren’t encrypted.

For now, the beta of client-side encryption for Gmail is restricted to Google Workspace Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, and Education Standard editions. Organizations can sign up for the beta on this page, and the feature will need to be turned on by administrators.