I’ve been using Gmail since it first came out.
Lately, they do keep putting in these little nag reminders that it’s a lot easier for security reason if I would link it to my cell phone number.
So far, I’ve managed to resist the urge just fine with no problems.
I don’t think it’s required for new accounts either.
However, if you’re concerned about Google’s general nosiness, there’s a neat one called Fastmail which was started by some people who wanted to put in all the features they found lacking in other email services.
It’s highly customizable and does not require any intrusive personal info.
It got all kinds of praises heaped upon it by Tech mags and newspapers so you can check out their press clippings.
Fastmail.fm
(plus there are a ton of other domains available.). The creators also participate in an email Forum board so it’s possible to communicate with them directly if one desires.
These guys are real email mavens and know what they’re doing. Check them out and see if you like them.
Btw. I stopped using my Yahoo mail a long time ago because I got so fed up trying to clear up the spam. Ridiculous.
That’s one thing I can say for Gmail. They have EXCELLENT automatic spam filtering. I can’t even remember the lady time I saw a spam message. (obviously I could look into the spam folder if I were a masochist, but il referring to my regular inbox.)
The spam folder auto deletes automatically after 30 days.