Google Assures Users That Third-Party Apps Need to Pass Evaluation Before Accessing Gmail Content

Google has released a statement in an attempt to clarify that they have privacy and security policies in place for Gmail users amid reports that third-party apps can read private emails.

In a blog post on Tuesday, Google’s security, trust, and privacy director, Suzanne Frey, said, “We make it possible for applications from other developers to integrate with Gmail—like email clients, trip planners and customer relationship management (CRM) systems—so that you have options around how you access and use your email.”

Google came under fire earlier this week when a Wall Street Journal report revealed Gmail messages are being read by human employees of third-party companies. The report also claimed that other companies are using automated methods for scanning Gmail messages.

The tech giant later confirmed that non-Google software companies are given the privilege of accessing Gmail content. But Google reiterated that this is provided only to companies that pass their evaluation process.

“Before a published, non-Google app can access your Gmail messages, it goes through a multi-step review process that includes automated and manual review of the developer, assessment of the app’s privacy policy and homepage to ensure it is a legitimate app, and in-app testing to ensure the app works as it says it does,” Google argued.

Some might assume that the controversial Gmail access given to non-Google developers is meant for advertising transactions. However, Frey denied this theory and said, “We do not process email content to serve ads, and we are not compensated by developers for API access. ... We do show ads in consumer Gmail, but those ads are not based on the content of your emails.”

Meanwhile, Frey also encouraged G Suite users to review app permissions they have allowed for certain apps and evaluate whether or not they are willing to continue allowing these activities. Google has also reminded customers that Google services have user controls to manage the collection of information.

Users can view Google’s Security Checkup page to review third-party access they have allowed on their Gmail accounts.