There are important messages you need, and then there are some you miss without much consequence. At the bottom of the barrel, there’s junk mail. Want to put a stop to it? Tap or click here to hide your primary email address.

Here’s the backstory

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Create a new email address

There are many options for free email accounts. We’ll show you how to do it with two popular services, starting with Gmail:

You’ll need a Google Account to sign up for Gmail.Go to the Google Account creation page.Follow the onscreen instructions and enter the requested information such as first name, last name, new username and the new password, confirming each screen.You’ll need a phone number to verify your account. This is an excellent example of two-step verification. Tap or click here to learn more about this vital security feature.Once you’ve verified your account, you’ll get a form requesting personal information and a recovery email.Accept Google’s terms of service and you’ll have your new Gmail account.

Here’s how to set up a new Outlook email address:

Open a web browser, go to the Outlook.com sign-up screen and select Create free account.Enter a username and password, then select Next. Be sure to use a strong and unique password. A password manager can be a huge help here.Enter personal information on the following screens, including your name and birthday.Complete the CAPTCHA.You’ll get a welcome screen, and you can now use your new email account.

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