Google Rejects Reports of Gmail Data Breach, Says Security Protections Remain Strong

Google has rejected reports of a Gmail data breach, clarifying it has not sent any global password reset alerts and stressing that Gmail's security protections remain strong and effective. Several inaccurate claims surfaced recently that incorrectly stated that Google issued a broad warning to all Gmail users about a major Gmail security issue.

Google has dismissed reports of a Gmail data breach, asserting that it has not sent any global password reset alerts and that Gmail's security measures remain robust and effective. The company has clarified that recent claims of a widespread warning to users about a major Gmail security issue are inaccurate. This comes amid a flurry of reports alleging a data compromise that affected billions of users.

Google's official statement, released on September 2, 2025, emphasized that its security protections are strong and effective, stopping more than 99.9% of phishing and malware attempts before they reach users' inboxes. The company clarified that no such advisory was issued to all Gmail users, contrary to reports that surfaced in recent weeks. These reports suggested that Google had warned users to update their passwords due to a suspected breach tied to one of its Salesforce databases.

The misinformation, according to Google, was likely fueled by a spike in phishing attacks and the activities of groups such as ShinyHunters, a known Russian-linked hacking collective. However, Google has stated that these claims are false and that no such advisory was ever sent. The company has advised users to remain vigilant and to use modern authentication tools like Passkeys to enhance their security.

In a separate incident, Google has issued a security alert to its 2.5 billion Gmail users, urging them to take proactive measures following a data breach involving one of its third-party Salesforce systems. This breach, which occurred in June 2025, involved a corporate Salesforce instance used by Google. The data accessed was limited to basic, largely public business information, such as company names and contact details, and did not compromise consumer products like Gmail or Google Drive.

Google has recommended users update their passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and be wary of unsolicited emails or calls requesting personal information. The company has also emphasized the importance of accurate cybersecurity reporting and its commitment to keeping user accounts secure.

References:
[1] https://mashable.com/article/gmail-password-data-breach-phishing
[2] https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/gmail-protections-strong-effective-security-warning-claims-false-google-125090200500_1.html
[3] https://cybersecuritynews.com/gmail-users-password-reset/
[4] https://www.rswebsols.com/news/google-issues-emergency-alert-to-2-5-billion-gmail-users-after-major-salesforce-data-breach-steps-to-protect-yourself/