How to Spot the Latest Fake Gmail Security Alerts

Security alerts from tech companies are designed to inform us of potential threats, but what if these alerts themselves are the risk? Scammers have been impersonating tech companies' security and support staff for years, using this tactic to trick users into revealing their login credentials. A recent surge in reports suggests that scammers are taking this approach at an unprecedented scale.

The Attack: How Scammers Impersonate Google Support

Victims of these scams receive emails or phone calls claiming to be from Google support, warning them that someone has attempted to hack their account. The scammer advises the victim to reset their password and sends a separate email with a code that must be read out loud to verify legitimacy.

The scammers then use the extra few seconds between reading the code and entering it as an opportunity to hijack the victim's account. A Redditor described receiving a call from someone claiming to be from Google, who was attempting to actively recover their account while on the phone with them.

Recognizing the Red Flags

Distinguishing between genuine security alerts and fake ones can be challenging. However, there are some telltale signs that you should be aware of:

• No phone call from Google**: According to Google's guide, the company will never contact you out of the blue. If someone claims to be from Google, it's likely a scammer.
• Legitimate messages appear on the Security page**: Check your Google account security page for any suspicious activity. Legitimate messages will always appear here.
• No verification requests**: Be wary of anyone asking you to verify yourself by entering a code or password. Never give out this information unless you're 100% certain it's coming from a legitimate source.

Protecting Yourself

To safeguard against these scams, follow these tips:

• Reset your password promptly**: If you receive a fake security alert, don't hesitate to reset your password. This will prevent the scammer from gaining access to your account.
• Verify messages before responding**: Be cautious when receiving messages purporting to be from Google or Amazon. Check for any red flags and verify the message through official channels if necessary.
• Use reputable security software**: Utilize a reliable security suite that includes features like Malwarebytes Scam Guard, which can detect and alert you to potential scams.

Staying Safe Online

Cybersecurity risks should never be taken lightly. By staying vigilant and taking steps to protect yourself, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these types of scams.

Download Malwarebytes Mobile Security today, and take advantage of its features, including Malwarebytes Scam Guard. This powerful tool will help detect and alert you to potential scams, keeping your online identity safe.