This is an important notice for all Gmail users:
Google has announced that as of 30th September, it will implement the OAuth method of authentication for all Less Secure Apps (LSAs). This includes any third-party apps, such as email clients, currently being used to access Gmail.
Google’s plan to tighten authentication security was first mentioned in December 2019 but with the intervention of Covid has taken until now to finally come to fruition.
The move to OAuth authentication impacts all third-party apps used to access Google services (what Google refers to as “Less Secure Apps”), including third-party email clients such as Thunderbird.
“As part of our commitment to user safety, Google will no longer support the sign-in method for third-party apps or devices that require users to share their Google username and password” ~ <source>
Google has been strengthening its account authentication method over the past few years, introducing 2FA, app passwords, and now the move to OAuth is imminent.
What Gmail Users Need To Do
If you’re using a third-party app to access Gmail locally, such as MailWasher or a third-party email client, you’ll need to remove the account and add it back in ensuring it is configured to use IMAP with OAuth (before 30th September).
**Please read: How To Set Up OAuth In Thunderbird
BOTTOM LINE:
The move to OAuth might cause some inconvenience for users but it does, nonetheless, represent an important security upgrade that will more effectively protect your Gmail account.
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Well, this was news to me, so thanks for the article. I’m a Thunderbird user. Haven’t been hit yet, but I’m sure it is coming.
I use the 365 version of Outlook email client (not the web version). there is a slider switch awaking to try the new Outlook. We will need to go to the new version to get gmail to work?
Hey Vince,
As far as I am aware, OAuth is supported in the 365 version of Outlook. So, you should be good, no reason to switch to the new Outlook.
Please read:
https://davescomputertips.com/microsoft-enforces-new-email-authentication-method/
https://davescomputertips.com/using-microsoft-outlook-with-gmail-maybe-not-after-may-30/
I wonder how it will impact gmail’s own smtp send-as options.
I use the free Google Workspaces with a lot of send-as entire to send as other gmail accounts (not delegation, but aliases), going now to make sure it will continue working.
Does this impact using Gmail through a mobile app on a smartphone?
Hey Tony,
Yes, mate. iOS and Android apps will indeed be impacted- they will also need to be changed over to the OAuth method of authentication.
If I delete my account in Thunderbird, what happens to all my local folders? I don’t want to move all that data into one new folder and then reassign the messages. What a royal PIA!!!!