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Self-destructing emails: You can send emails that automatically delete after a set time.
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No IP logging by default: Users can maintain anonymity without their IP addresses being stored.
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Open-source code: ProtonMail’s code is publicly available, ensuring transparency and security.
These features make ProtonMail an excellent choice for those prioritizing online privacy.
ProtonMail vs Gmail & Outlook
|
Feature |
ProtonMail |
Gmail |
Outlook |
|
End-to-end encryption |
Yes |
No (except in confidential mode) |
No |
|
Zero-access storage |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Ads & data tracking |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Anonymous signup |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Self-destructing Emails |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Free plan available |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Business features |
Limited |
Extensive |
Extensive |
How to send a secure email in Gmail
For users who still prefer Gmail but want to enhance their email security, Google does offer a “confidential mode.” Here’s how to send a secure email in Gmail:
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Open Gmail and click compose.
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Click the lock icon at the bottom of the email window.
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Set an expiration date and an optional SMS passcode.
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Click Save and send your email.
While this adds a layer of protection, Gmail’s encryption is still not zero-access like ProtonMail’s, meaning Google can access your emails if needed.
The 2021 ProtonMail legal case & privacy considerations
In 2021, ProtonMail was involved in a legal controversy when it provided user IP logs to Swiss authorities, leading to the arrest of a French activist. This raised concerns about whether ProtonMail truly guarantees anonymous email usage.
Understanding the context
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Swiss laws apply – ProtonMail operates under Swiss jurisdiction, which has strong privacy protections but also legal obligations to comply with court orders.
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No proactive logging – ProtonMail does not store IP addresses by default, but it can be compelled by Swiss courts to start logging under specific legal circumstances.
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Better than alternatives – While this case showed that ProtonMail is not completely immune to legal pressure, services like Gmail and Outlook provide far less privacy by default and routinely collect vast amounts of user data.
How to enhance your privacy further
For users who require maximum anonymity, ProtonMail recommends using additional tools such as:
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Tor browser – To obscure your IP address while accessing ProtonMail.
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VPN services – To add an extra layer of anonymity to your internet connection.
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Anonymous payment methods – Using cryptocurrency or cash-based payment options for ProtonMail’s premium services.
This case highlights that while ProtonMail is one of the best secure email providers available, no service can offer absolute anonymity under all circumstances.
Final verdict: Is ProtonMail the best secure email service?
If your main priority is privacy, ProtonMail is one of the best options available. With end-to-end encryption, anonymous signup, and Swiss-based privacy protections, it outperforms Gmail and Outlook in terms of security. However, the 2021 legal case proves that absolute anonymity is challenging to guarantee.
For users who value convenience, Gmail and Outlook might still be preferable due to their extensive integrations and features. But if you’re looking for the best secure email provider to protect sensitive communications, ProtonMail remains a top choice.
If you're looking for more ways to enhance your online privacy, be sure to check out our website our shop for a range of privacy-focused products!
