Virtru Retired - How can I send emails securely?
To streamline our workflow and utilize our existing tools more effectively, we are transitioning away from Virtru for secure external communications. Moving forward, please use Google Drive or Gmail Confidential Mode to share sensitive information with outside entities. After Feb 18, 2026, Virtru will cease to function and you will need to use one of the methods below to send secure emails.
Method 1: Sharing Files via Google Drive
This is the best method for sharing documents, spreadsheets, or other files securely.
Upload & Share: Right-click the file in Google Drive and select Share.
Manage Access: Enter the external email address and set their role (e.g., Viewer).
Add an Expiry Date: After adding the person, click their access level (e.g., "Viewer") and select Add expiration to ensure they only have access for a limited time.
Method 2: Sending Secure Emails via Confidential Mode
Use this for short, text-only communications. This mode is not for attachments.
Compose: Open a new email in Gmail.
Toggle Confidential Mode: Click the lock/clock icon
at the bottom of the compose window.
Set Optional Parameters:
Expiration: Choose when the email will "self-destruct" (from 1 day to 5 years).
Passcode: Select SMS passcode for an extra layer of security. The recipient will receive a code via text to open the email.
Send: Once enabled, the email content cannot be forwarded, copied, printed, or downloaded by the recipient.
Why the Change?
Ease of Use: No need for third-party plugins or separate logins.
Native Integration: Fully compatible with the Google tools you already use every day.
Security: Provides expiration dates and prevents unauthorized downloading/forwarding.
Important Note: Please ensure you have the recipient's correct mobile number if you choose the SMS passcode option.
What do I need to do before Feb 18th?
Remove the Virtru Extension from Chrome
The extension can be removed in three clicks using the steps below. Start with the upper-most red arrow and work your way down. After the third click, you will be prompted to remove the extension from your browser.
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2. Begin using one of the two methods mentioned above to send secure messages to outside entities. It should be noted that PII (Social Security Numbers, Credit Card numbers, etc.) should only be sent using Method 1. If you attempt to send PII using Method 2, the email will be rejected automatically due to Data Loss Prevention (DLP) rules.
