Google Hack: 2.5 Billion Gmail Users at Risk from Scammers, How to Protect Your Account

Google's database was breached by hackers, exposing 2.5 billion Gmail users to scams. Scammers are using stolen data to impersonate Google workers via fake phone calls and emails. Cybersecurity expert James Knight advises Gmail users to update weak passwords, turn on multi-factor authentication, and be cautious of phishing and fake calls. Users should also check login settings and complete the Google Security Checkup to protect their accounts.

Google recently confirmed that hackers accessed one of its corporate Salesforce instances, potentially exposing 2.5 billion Gmail users to scams [2]. The breach affected basic, publicly available business information, such as contact details and notes from small and medium-sized companies. However, Google emphasizes that customer data from Google Cloud or consumer products like Gmail, Drive, or Calendar was not compromised.

The incident has led to an increase in phishing and vishing scams, with attackers exploiting the breach to trick users into revealing sensitive information. Scammers are posing as Google employees, warning victims of a supposed security breach and instructing them to reset their Gmail passwords, ultimately gaining control over the accounts.

Cybersecurity expert James Knight advises Gmail users to take immediate action to protect their accounts. He recommends updating weak passwords, turning on multi-factor authentication, and being cautious of phishing and fake calls. Users should also check their login settings and complete the Google Security Checkup to ensure their accounts are secure [2].

Google is working to mitigate the risks and has implemented new security measures, such as purpose-built machine learning models designed to detect malicious instructions and system-level safeguards. These measures aim to elevate the difficulty and complexity faced by attackers, making it harder for them to exploit vulnerabilities [1].

References:
[1] https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/google-issues-warning-1-8-034808263.html
[2] https://cyberguy.com/security/2-billion-users-face-phishing-risks-google-data-leak/