In honor of my Caught Dead in Wyoming mystery series, my assistant Gabriella Samuels is writing for my newsletter and blog a series of consumer tips inspired by TV reporter Elizabeth Margaret Danniher.
Gmail is one of the biggest email providers. More than 2 billion people worldwide and 130 million Americans use Gmail. Google employs several tools to secure Gmail accounts: two-factor authentication, in-transit email encryption, and spam filters. However, with the use of AI and easily acquired software, hackers are becoming more sophisticated with how they steal your data.
One of the biggest and quickly growing scams right now hacks into your account in real time. Scammers might send you a link via an email disguised as being from Google. They might say “your Gmail was hacked,” prompting you to review your security or change your password with the link they provided. If you click on the link, it will open a window that asks you to log back into Gmail under the guise of “security.”
The scammer’s software makes the link and new window appear as a legitimate Google link. However, what you see is not your screen, it’s the scammer’s. As you sign back in, the hacker will see your credentials and have access to your account.
Check out this video that explains this scam.
If you clicked on the link, your information could already be stolen, but here are some things to remember:
- Don’t click on any links in emails from Google. You can check your Gmail account directly without clicking the link.
- Avoid suspicious emails from people you don’t know.
- Be sure you have a strong password that is not too short.
- If your account is hacked or you think it is, contact Google immediately.
Stay safe and vigilant.