Abdelrahman
Authored by Stacy Liberatore for DailyMail.com
Published on: February 17, 2025, at 15:27 EST
Updated on: February 17, 2025, at 16:51 EST
All 1.8 billion Gmail users have received a critical alert regarding a scam that enables cybercriminals to infiltrate their accounts.
The scheme employs artificial intelligence (AI) technology to generate deepfake robocalls and harmful emails that can sneak past security measures.
These fraudulent communications aim to deceive victims into believing their Gmail accounts have been compromised. Recipients are notified via a phone call about suspicious activities detected in their account, followed by an email directing them to take corrective action.
That email contains a counterfeit website mirroring the layout of Google’s, where users are prompted to enter their login credentials.
Cybersecurity specialists have cautioned that the objective of this operation is to persuade users to disclose their Gmail recovery code, under the pretense that it is essential for account restoration.
Moreover, this threat extends beyond Gmail; connected services are also at risk of being hacked.
The FBI has stated, "These sophisticated tactics can lead to devastating financial losses, reputational harm, and the compromise of sensitive information."
Cybersecurity experts urge Gmail users to heed the FBI’s warnings seriously. As detailed by Malwarebytes, the tools used by cybercriminals are often inexpensive: "Research indicates that the cost of executing advanced email attacks can begin at only $5."
A study by McAfee’s State of Scamiverse revealed that impressive deepfakes could be produced in under 10 minutes for a minimal investment.
While previous alerts from the FBI centered on threats using AI-generated videos and emails, Malwarebytes has recently uncovered that hackers are combining both robocalls and emails in their latest assaults.
The elements employed in these attacks are not new. However, their combination may significantly enhance the campaign’s effectiveness.
Malwarebytes has recommended several precautions for Gmail users to avoid falling prey to these scams. They advise against clicking links or downloading files from unfamiliar emails, and users should only enter personal data on websites they trust completely.
"Employ a password manager to fill in credentials exclusively on verified platforms," Malwarebytes suggests. "Keep an eye on your accounts for any unauthorized activity or data breaches."
The FBI has also alerted Android and iPhone users this month about a series of new scams that endanger both bank accounts and personal information. They advise users to promptly end any calls from scammers impersonating someone else.
This new tactic is more sophisticated than earlier scams as it utilizes ‘spoof’ caller ID to mimic banks and law enforcement agencies nationwide.
Authorities in Long Island, New York, reported multiple instances where residents received calls from individuals claiming to represent the Suffolk County Police Department, warning them of an imminent arrest warrant unless they sent money.
FBI officials emphasize that anyone receiving these types of calls should avoid sharing personal details and not engage further – simply hang up.
If you suspect you may have been targeted by such a scam, reach out directly to the legitimate organization using confirmed contact details.
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