More and more users of trail cameras and SIM-enabled devices are noticing that sending emails via Gmail SMTP is becoming unstable or even impossible. This is not случай — Google has tightened its security policies.
Important: Google is gradually blocking access for “less secure” devices (such as trail cameras) from using SMTP.
Why is Gmail no longer working properly?
- Modern authentication (OAuth2) – not supported by most cameras
- Blocking of “Less Secure Apps”
- Security restrictions for suspicious IPs (mobile networks)
- Limitations for IoT devices
Common symptoms
- “SMTP Error” or “Authentication Failed”
- Emails are not sent at all
- It worked before, but now it doesn’t
Solution 1 — Use an App Password (if still supported)
- Enable 2-Step Verification (2FA)
- Generate an App Password
- Use that password in your camera
This method still works for some cameras, but it is not guaranteed long-term.
Solution 2 — Switch to another SMTP provider (RECOMMENDED)
Stable alternatives:
- Outlook / Hotmail
SMTP: smtp.office365.com
Port: 587 (TLS)
- Yahoo Mail
SMTP: smtp.mail.yahoo.com
Port: 465 (SSL)
- Zoho Mail (recommended for cameras)
SMTP: smtp.zoho.com
Port: 465 (SSL)
Solution 3 — Use a dedicated SMTP server (most stable option)
For advanced users or professional setups:
- Own SMTP server (VPS)
- Services like Mailgun, SendGrid
- Full control and no blocking
Solution 4 — Use the camera app (no email)
Many modern cameras use dedicated apps and cloud services:
- Instant notifications
- No dependency on SMTP
- More stable long-term
Important recommendations
- DO NOT use your main personal email account
- Use a dedicated email for your camera
- Test sending regularly
- Avoid Gmail on older cameras
In the long run, Gmail is NOT a reliable solution for trail cameras.
Conclusion
If you are using a SIM-enabled camera, now is the time to switch to an alternative. Gmail is becoming increasingly restrictive, while dedicated SMTP services or cloud apps are the future.