Google loves Google+. So much so that whether this is a good idea or not, it continues to integrate its other services into Google+. The writing some see on the wall is that Google will eventually turn this social service into Google’s base as users see it. Like Facebook, Google probably has a master plan for integrating your data more deeply, but oftentimes it seems like someone has a great idea and presents it to users. Fortunately, sometimes there is an opt-out option.
Google’s last move To provide a “feature” with Google+ where any Google+ user can email you assuming you are a Google+ user. Or, as Google says, it’s now easier to communicate with someone via email using Google+. Two sides of every coin. The key to sending or receiving emails is Google+’s Circles feature. If you are following someone in your circles or vice versa, you or they can reach us. Considering how easy it is to circle someone, you can see where some of the anxiety lies. No one needs to know someone else’s e-mail address to send an e-mail. However, in case one of the parties responds, you can capture the email address the same way you always capture an email address in Gmail. Emails sent through this feature will appear in the Social tab in Gmail. The new feature is turned on by default.
The worry is that Google+ will one day turn into a service where spammers will jump on the bandwagon, start following everyone, and then start filling their inbox with spam. Google touts this integration between Google+ and Gmail as a useful feature, noting that it will help you keep your contacts more up-to-date and autofill an address, for example, an email.
You are allowed to restrict the feature so you can only receive emails from people who are already in your circles or expand it to your wider circles. You can also turn the feature off completely. Here’s how.
Click the gear in Gmail. Then scroll down. Once there, scroll down until you see
Choose your preferred option from the drop-down menu: Everyone on Google+, Circles, Extended Circles, or Nobody. Essentially, you’re done. However, you need to scroll down to the bottom of the settings screen and click Save Settings to validate your selection.
You’re done.
