I recently set up a ProtonMail account as part of reducing my dependence on Google services. I’ve already transferred my banking and financial accounts to the new email address. Now I’m unsure about what to do with other services. For example, Amazon sends tons of promotional messages, so I’m thinking of keeping that connected to my old Gmail account. But what about gaming platforms, Netflix and other streaming subscriptions, online retailers, and similar services? Is it better to move everything over to minimize Google’s data collection about me, or should I strategically leave the spam-heavy accounts on Gmail to keep my new ProtonMail inbox clean? I’m torn between privacy goals and practical inbox management. What approach would you recommend for this transition?
I faced this same problem six months ago switching to ProtonMail. Here’s what worked: I moved the critical stuff first - banking, healthcare, work accounts - straight to ProtonMail. Everything else? I just update the email whenever I naturally use the service, like buying something on Amazon or renewing subscriptions. This gradual approach actually helps you figure out what services you really use. Those promotional emails are handy for tracking what data companies have on you, so let them keep hitting Gmail while you transition. Gives you a clear picture of your digital footprint. After four months, most of my active accounts had switched over without the headache of doing everything at once.
Try a hybrid approach - use both accounts strategically. Keep ProtonMail for real communications and services you actually use: streaming, gaming, legit retailers where you shop regularly. These won’t flood your inbox with junk. Let Gmail catch all the promotional stuff and one-time signups like loyalty programs, newsletters, or services you’re testing. You get privacy where it counts and Gmail becomes your spam filter. Here’s what I learned switching over - promotional emails sometimes have important security notifications buried in the marketing garbage, so don’t totally ignore Gmail. Check it weekly for anything crucial, but keep your daily email clean in ProtonMail.
Honestly, just rip the band-aid off and switch everything to ProtonMail. Keeping Gmail means Google still sees what services you’re using, even if it’s just promotional emails. It took me two weekends to update all my accounts. Yeah, my ProtonMail gets more emails now, but at least Google isn’t building a profile on my shopping habits. You can always unsubscribe from the worst spam later.
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