Restrict messages from unknown senders in Chat

To increase security and reduce the number of unwanted messages, which includes spam, you can restrict Chat message requests from unknown senders in 1:1 conversations and spaces.

Important: This feature is only available for personal accounts, not work or school accounts.

1. On your computer, open Google Chat or Gmail.
   • In Gmail: On the left, click Chat.
2. At the top right, click Settings .
3. To choose who can message you in:
   • 1:1 conversations: Under "Who can message you?," select:
     • Anyone: You can receive invitations from anyone.
     • Known senders only: For increased security, you can receive invitations only if the sender is in your contacts or if you’ve interacted with them before. Other invitations go to the spam folder.
   • Spaces: Under “Who can invite you to spaces?,” select:
     • Anyone: You can receive invitations from anyone.
     • Known senders only: For increased security, you can receive invitations only if the sender is in your contacts or if you’ve interacted with them before. Other invitations go to the spam folder.