Google Denies Gmail Shutdown Amid Viral Hoax
Google found itself debunking a widespread hoax alleging the impending closure of its popular email service, Gmail.
The misinformation, which gained traction on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), prompted Google to issue a public statement reaffirming the continuity of Gmail.A post on X garnered over seven million views, asserting that Gmail would cease operations by August.
However, Google swiftly responded on the same platform, refuting the false claim and reassuring users of Gmail’s permanence.Richard Bagnall, CEO of communications evaluation firm CARMA, highlighted the prevalence of misinformation online, emphasizing the challenge of verifying facts in an era where social networks disseminate unfiltered information.
While social media platforms grapple with the spread of misinformation, X has faced heightened scrutiny, with the EU flagging its role in amplifying falsehoods. Despite emphasizing its commitment to combatting hate speech, X has been criticized for its handling of misinformation.
The hoax appears to stem from a legitimate email sent by Google in 2023, notifying users about changes to Gmail’s HTML view. Although the original HTML view, introduced in 2004, has been phased out, Gmail remains the world’s leading email service, boasting over 1.5 billion active users globally.
Despite dispelling the hoax, Google’s track record includes discontinuing various services, such as Stadia gaming and YouTube Stories. Additionally, plans to sunset Google Podcasts underscore the company’s strategic shifts in its product portfolio.As the digital landscape continues to evolve, combating misinformation remains a pressing challenge for tech giants like Google, highlighting the critical need for robust verification processes and responsible content moderation.Credit: BBC News