Off The Record
2,500,000,000 Gmail Users Are Being Warned Of A “Devastating Scam” That Enables Hackers To Steal Critical Information And Bank Accounts
The ‘devastating fraud’ that allegedly enables hackers to steal private data and banking information has alerted 2.5 billion Gmail users.
Even if we can take every precaution to make sure our gadgets are as safe as possible, there are situations when we simply cannot control them.
It appears that cybercriminals are employing every possible tactic to exploit gullible internet users. Lately, they have been focusing on Gmail users, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to generate phoney phone calls and send out emails that appear authentic.
After these incredibly lifelike phone calls, visitors receive an email that directs them to a webpage that appears to be just like the Google website. However, the URL is a complete hoax.
Additionally, the hackers can steal information, money, and identities if that link is clicked.
According to Spencer Starkey, a vice-president of SonicWall, businesses like Google must be vigilant in order to protect their users.
He said: “Cybercriminals are constantly developing new tactics, techniques, and procedures to exploit vulnerabilities and bypass security controls, and companies must be able to quickly adapt and respond to these threats.”
“This requires a proactive and flexible approach to cybersecurity, which includes regular security assessments, threat intelligence, vulnerability management, and incident response planning.”
Victim Sam Mitrovic recalled his ordeal, saying to the Metro: “The scams are getting increasingly sophisticated, more convincing and are deployed at ever larger scale.”
“People are busy and this scam sounded and looked legitimate enough that I would give them an A for their effort. Many people are likely to fall for it.”
The FBI warned in May 2024 about the growing danger of hackers employing artificial intelligence (AI) in their frauds to make them harder for victims to detect.
Robert Tripp, from the FBI, said at the time: “Attackers are leveraging AI to craft highly convincing voice or video messages and emails to enable fraud schemes against individuals and businesses alike.”
“These sophisticated tactics can result in devastating financial losses, reputational damage, and compromise of sensitive data.”
In order to avoid falling for these frauds, the FBI also advised being on your guard.
“Be aware of urgent messages asking for money or credentials. Businesses should explore various technical solutions to reduce the number of phishing and social engineering emails and text messages that make their way to their employees,” the website states.
“Additionally, businesses should combine this technology with regular employee education and employees about the dangers of phishing and social engineering attacks and the importance of verifying the authenticity of digital communications, especially those requesting sensitive information or financial transactions.”
According to the agency, adding multi-factor authentication is also a smart idea to make sure you’re as safe as possible.
The founder of breach Club, Zach Lata, who almost fell victim to the breach, described how hackers tried to collect private information using a rather straightforward technique.
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