02.08.25

Stop those sneaky images: disable auto-loading in Gmail

Ever received an email with an enticing subject line, only to find it’s filled with suspicious images? Those images might not just be pretty pictures – they could be hiding malicious code designed to infect your computer.

Why Disable Auto-Loading Images?

  • Hidden Malware: Images embedded in emails can sometimes contain hidden malware, like viruses or spyware.
  • Tracking Your Activity: Image files can be used to track whether you’ve opened an email, even if you don’t click on any links.
  • Protecting Your Privacy: Disabling image loading helps protect your privacy by preventing websites from tracking your activity.

How to Disable Auto-Loading Images in Gmail:

  1. Open Gmail: Log in to your Gmail account.
  2. Access Settings: Click on the gear icon in the top right corner and select “Settings.”
  3. Find Image Settings: Scroll down to the “Images” section.
  4. Choose “Ask before displaying external images.” This option allows you to manually choose which images to load.

For Mobile Users:

  • Open the Gmail app: Tap on your profile picture in the top left corner.
  • Select “Settings.”
  • Choose “General.”
  • Scroll down to “Images” and select “Ask before displaying external images.”

By disabling auto-loading images, you can enhance your email security and reduce the risk of infection from malicious content.