Google Gmail Now Supports Extra Addresses With Data Transfer, Users Warned About Scams
Google Gmail now lets users change their main email address without losing any data. For years, people were stuck with old or awkward addresses. But scammers are already trying to exploit this. We from tech communities think it’s important to know both the benefits and the risks.
Gmail’s New Extra Address Feature
- Permanent username change now possible: Until 2025, Gmail usernames could not be changed. You could only add aliases.
- Swap your main address: Users can now replace their @gmail.com address without losing emails, contacts, or files.
- Old address stays as an alias: Gmail keeps your previous address active, so messages to it still arrive in your inbox.
- Unified inbox: Emails sent to either address appear in the same inbox.
- All Google services remain linked: Your Drive, Photos, YouTube, and other Google accounts stay connected.
- Major shift in Gmail rules: This change aligns Gmail more with services like Microsoft Outlook, where email identities can be updated.
Data Transfer Capabilities
- All data stays intact: Gmail keeps emails, contacts, and settings safe when you add a new address.
- Email history and labels remain: Nothing in your old inbox is lost.
- Google Photos and contacts stay linked: Everything moves seamlessly to the new address.
- No manual transfer needed: Unlike creating a new account, you don’t have to move files or emails manually.
Limits to keep in mind:
- Frequency limit: You can only change your Gmail address once every 12 months.
- Maximum changes: Up to three changes per account (four addresses total, including the original).
- Deletion restriction: You cannot delete a new address immediately after changing it.
User Benefits and Productivity Gains
- Fresh identity without losing history: Change old or embarrassing usernames while keeping all emails and data.
- Easier professional use: Update your Gmail for job hunting or business without juggling multiple accounts. Apps and settings stay intact.
- Unified access across Google services: Gmail login updates automatically for Drive, Maps, YouTube, and Play Store while keeping history.
- Better control over digital identity: Users who changed names or roles can align their Gmail with their current identity.
Security Concerns and Scam Alerts
- Scammers are targeting Gmail updates: Cybersecurity experts report new scams tricking users into sharing passwords or sensitive info.
- Fake update emails: Some emails claim you must update your Gmail immediately.
- Phishing pages: Scammers mimic Google login screens to steal credentials.
- Impersonated notifications: Fake warnings, links, or alerts pretending to come from Gmail.
- Google never asks for credentials via email: Always go to Gmail settings directly. Don’t click links in suspicious messages.
- Double-check senders: Even emails that look real may be fake. Avoid entering passwords on unfamiliar sites.
Potential Challenges and Considerations
- Gradual rollout: The feature is first available in select regions like India. Not all users see it yet. Support documentation is still being updated.
- Third-party app issues: Apps using “Sign in with Google” may not update automatically. You might need to reconnect them manually.
- Legacy services may still show the old address: Some calendar events or shared documents might display your original email until updated manually.
- Limits on frequency: Google restricts how often you can change addresses and sets a waiting period between changes. Choose wisely.
Conclusion
Google Gmail is changing in a big way. Users can now update their email address without losing any data, making it easier to manage old accounts and control their online identity. But scammers are already targeting this update. We from tech and security communities advise staying cautious and verifying alerts directly in Gmail. Enjoy the new features, but protect your account and avoid sharing login details with anyone.
FAQS
You can change your Gmail address once every 12 months, with a maximum of three changes per account.
Yes, Gmail keeps your old address as an alias, so emails sent to it will still arrive in your inbox.
Always verify alerts directly in Gmail or Google settings. Never click links or share passwords from suspicious emails.
Disclaimer:
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
