Users of Gmail reported widespread inbox problems on Saturday, as emails began appearing in incorrect categories and spam filters stopped working properly.
The issue appeared on the official status dashboard of Google Workspace, indicating service disruption across Gmail.
Reports suggest the problem began around 5:00 am PT, when users noticed unusual email behaviour. Messages normally sorted into Promotions, Social, or Updates started flooding the Primary inbox.
Gmail’s spam filter and automatic sorting are broken https://t.co/X9iP3ouHod
— The Verge (@verge) January 24, 2026Many users also said Gmail incorrectly flagged legitimate emails from known contacts as spam. At the same time, unsolicited messages bypassed spam filters and landed directly in inboxes.
Complaints quickly spread across social media, where users described Gmail’s filtering system as suddenly unreliable. Several said spam messages overwhelmed their inboxes without warning.
Google acknowledged the issue and confirmed that teams are actively working to restore normal service. The company did not provide a timeline for a full resolution.
Google advised users to remain cautious when opening messages from unfamiliar senders and to continue following standard email safety practices until the issue is resolved.
