Google touts extra encryption for Gmail, remains mum on other apps

Google recently trumpeted that it now encrypts Gmail messages while shuffling them among its data centers, an extra security layer aimed at thwarting government and criminal snoops, but didn't say if it applies this protection to its other applications.

Asked for clarification, the company declined to comment. "We don't have more details to share beyond the Gmail news, but we're always working in strengthening and encrypting across more services and links," a spokeswoman said via email.

Google's reluctance to clarify the scope of its internal encryption is baffling and does a disservice to enterprise customers who rely on the Apps suite for workplace communication, cloud storage and collaboration, according to analysts.