Google warns Gmail users: New scheme is starting with phone calls
If you use Gmail, then it is important to be more alert now. Google has warned its more than a billion users about a new scam activity. This fraud is not a simple phishing email – this time, cyber criminals are targeting users in a new way, in which the first step is a direct phone call.
- Google warns Gmail users: New scheme is starting with phone calls
- New way of scam: A Verification code is being asked through a phone call
- Real User Experience: The scam has reached many users
- Google’s official statement: The scheme is limited, but users should remain alert
- How to protect yourself from scams?
- Conclusion
New way of scam: A Verification code is being asked through a phone call
In this fraud, criminals call the victim by claiming to be a Google representative. They say that they need to confirm the recovery details of your account. But the real intention is to get the two-factor authentication code from you, which Google sends on the user’s request.
As soon as you give them this code, they can access your account and lock you out.
Real User Experience: The scam has reached many users
A Gmail user shared his experience on Reddit that someone called him pretending to be a Google employee. The caller told him to verify his recovery email and asked for a verification code.
Shockingly, the call seemed to be coming from a legitimate Google number, and the email ID looked official. Apart from this, hackers are using fear and urgency so that users react immediately.
Other users also said in the same Reddit thread that they have also received similar calls.
Google’s official statement: The scheme is limited, but users should remain alert
Google has confirmed that this is a known scam that is currently targeting only selected users. The company said, “We have strengthened our security and suspended accounts found to be involved in such scams.”
But Google also said that all users should be cautious. The company clearly said, “Google will never call you and ask for a code to reset your password or troubleshoot your account.”
How to protect yourself from scams?
If you ever get a call where someone claims to be a Google employee and asks you for a verification code, disconnect the call without delay. Report any such suspicious activity to Google.
Also remember that authentication codes are only for security actions initiated by you – these codes should never be given to anyone else.
3 Golden Safety Tips of Google:
- Slow Down – Fraudsters create urgency. Do not take quick decisions, think and understand.
- Spot Check – Do your own research. Does what the other person is saying seem logical?
- Hold On! Don’t send – No genuine organization will ever demand personal information or payment immediately.
Conclusion
This new scam happening on Gmail once again shows that cyber criminals are finding new ways. That is why every user needs to remain alert and follow basic account safety rules. Google says, never blindly trust any call coming from an unknown source, and never share your personal security information with anyone.
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