Warning Issued to Two Billion Gmail Users About Potential ‘Spot Check’ Threat

Google is warning users of Gmail to perform an important “spot check” to protect themselves from a new kind of scam. This warning comes as two serious scams have been reported, both of which are designed to steal passwords and access accounts. Google is advising users to be cautious and watch for specific signs that may indicate their accounts have been compromised.

To help prevent these scams, Google encourages users to follow four key rules that will help keep their accounts secure. These sophisticated scams can lead to major financial losses, damage to personal reputation, and the exposure of sensitive information, warned Robert Tripp, an FBI Special Agent in Charge.

So, what should users be on the lookout for? Google suggests that if you notice any strange changes to your Gmail settings or activities, this could mean that someone else has gained access to your account. Some of the signs to look for include unfamiliar changes in security settings, any unauthorized financial activity, and unusual notifications about your account. If you see anything unusual, such as changes to mail delegation (who can access your emails), automatic mail forwarding settings, the name displayed in Gmail, or if a vacation responder is turned on, take action immediately to correct these settings.

There are other signs that your account might be at risk as well. For instance, if you notice that the address on outgoing emails has changed, or if your account appears to have been accessed remotely through protocols like IMAP or POP, this could be concerning. You should also check for unwanted filters that may be sorting your received emails or any unfamiliar labels that you didn’t create.

Additionally, if your friends mention that they’ve received spam or odd emails that appear to be from you, or if you suspect your username has been altered, make sure to investigate further. It’s essential to keep an eye on your inbox for any emails that are missing or that you did not send. Even if emails are deleted, you might still have the chance to recover them from the Trash folder.

Google, which has over 2.5 billion users and is the largest email service in the world, emphasizes the importance of keeping user accounts secure. The company reportedly blocks over 99.9% of spam, phishing attempts, and malware targeting Gmail. Their security efforts are most crucial, especially during holidays when scams tend to increase.

To ensure safety, Google encourages users to “slow down” and double-check emails before taking action. These golden rules include verifying the details of the emails, questioning whether the contents make sense, and confirming the sender’s email address. Following these guidelines can greatly reduce the risk of falling victim to scams.

In summary, being vigilant and regularly checking your account settings can help protect your Gmail from potential scams. By understanding the warning signs and adhering to Google’s recommendations, users can significantly enhance their email security and keep their information safe.