Enhancing Gmail Security: Google’s Recommendations
Google is urging its 2.5 billion Gmail users to change their passwords and strengthen account security following a series of hacker breaches, reports the New York Post.
The company advises users to be particularly vigilant about suspicious activities and to enable additional security measures, including two-factor authentication, if they haven't done so already.
Hackers typically gain access to accounts via phishing emails containing fake login pages or by tricking users into providing two-factor authentication codes. While most users have strong and unique passwords, only a third regularly update them.
Google is recommending users bolster their security following a breach of its Salesforce database, which exposed sensitive information, including contacts of small and medium-sized businesses. According to Google, the hacker group ShinyHunters, known since 2020 for high-profile breaches (AT&T, Microsoft, Santander, Ticketmaster), may be preparing new attacks and blackmailing victims through a site designed for leaking data.
The company notes that new attack methods are aimed at increasing pressure on victims, particularly those affected by the recent Salesforce incidents.
All users impacted by the latest attack have been notified via email from Google. The company encourages users to regularly check their account activity, avoid suspicious links, and report any unusual actions.
