The FBI has issued a key warning to Gmail users concerning unsolicited emails. Often, these messages are from various companies requesting information. Many of these emails are actual phishing schemes aimed at stealing people’s credentials. Hackers are becoming more believable because they are using increasingly-sophisticated AI techniques in their attacks. This allows them to bypass Gmail’s security features and thus increase its users’ risks.
Besides emails, the FBI urges users to avoid picking up the phone if they do not recognize the caller. These calls often come from individuals impersonating customer support service representatives who are quasi-skaters themselves. Hackers are specifically targeting Gmail users to get into their Google accounts and steal personal information.
There is an alarming amount of data from Hoxhunt, which indicates that there has been a rise in phishing attacks. With 49% of the number of attacks surmounting onto the security filters just since 2022, AI-based attacks accounted for 4.7% of the total phishing attacks. This trend serves as a potent reminder of the sophistication of cybercriminals and why users need to stay alert.
How To Protect Yourself From Gmail Phishing Scams According To The FBI.
- Companies rarely initiate unsolicited contact with individuals to request usernames and passwords.
- Avoid clicking on any unsolicited emails or text messages. Find the company’s phone number on your own (usually on their website or social media) and contact them to see if the request is valid.
- Examine the email address, URL, and spelling carefully in any unsolicited email or text communications, since scammers use minor changes to deceive you and gain your trust.
- Never open an email attachment from an unknown sender, and be aware of forwarded email attachments.
- Always enable two-factor or multi-factor authentication for any account that supports it.
- Be cautious about what information you share online or on social media, as scammers might exploit personal information such as your pet’s name, school name, and date of birth to steal your email.