Google Gmail users, turn off this automatic setting immediately!

Google offers a number of features in its popular Gmail service that are supposed to make the user experience easier, but some of them pose a privacy risk. Security experts warn that users should check and turn off the “Smart features and personalization” feature as soon as possible. This setting allows Google to analyze the content of your emails, which can lead to the unintentional disclosure of personal information or its use for advertising purposes.

Google Gmail is used by billions of people, but few realize how much data Google’s algorithms actually process in the background. One of the most controversial settings has to do with smart features that allow you to auto-complete text, organize it into tabs, and create calendar events directly from your inbox. While these options may seem convenient, they give Google permission to constantly “read” your communications in order to improve its machine learning models.

Turning off this feature in your Google Gmail settings is a crucial step for anyone looking to limit their digital footprint. When this option is enabled, Google not only tracks your texts, but also your shopping habits, travel plans, and financial obligations that you receive in the form of invoices. By turning off this personalization, you do not receive some automated services, but you significantly increase the security of your data against potential abuse or sophisticated social engineering attacks.

The process of disabling Google Gmail is simple. The user needs to open the settings, select the “General” tab and find the “Smart features and personalization” section. There, you need to remove the checkmark and confirm the choice. Google will warn that some features will no longer work, but this is a small price for peace of mind. Experts emphasize that digital hygiene is more important than ever in 2026, as attacks on personal accounts are becoming increasingly targeted.

In addition to this setting, Google also recommends regularly checking the list of devices that have access to your Gmail account. If you notice an unfamiliar device or location, remove it immediately and change your password. Using two-factor authentication (2FA) remains the best way to protect against unauthorized intrusions. Google Gmail offers cutting-edge technology, but the ultimate responsibility for privacy lies with the user, who must actively manage the security tools offered.