Google Issues Urgent Alert: 2.5 Billion Gmail Users Must Change Passwords

As hackers intensify their operations, Google has sent out a strong warning to its 2.5 billion Gmail users globally, asking them to update their passwords and turn on two-step verification (2SV). The advisory comes following an increase in successful break-ins, many of which have been tied to the renowned hacker gang ShinyHunters. According to SILIVE, the gang, which takes its name from the Pokmon series, has been active since 2020 and is thought to be responsible for a number of well-known data breaches, including those at AT & T, Microsoft, Santander, and Ticketmaster.

ShinyHunters' main approach is phishing: sending meticulously written emails that deceive recipients into clicking on fraudulent login sites or passing over important credentials, including security codes. Google has cautioned that the group's tactics might develop into more focused and destructive operations, even though a large portion of the stolen data in this previous effort was accessible to the general public.

"We believe threat actors using the 'ShinyHunters' brand may be preparing to escalate their extortion tactics by launching a data leak site (DLS)," the business stated in a blog post published in June.

A few weeks later, on August 8, Google sent out an email to Gmail users who could be impacted, urging them to immediately strengthen account security. Your digital front door gains an additional lock with two-step verification, sometimes referred to as multi-factor authentication or two-factor authentication. Criminals will still require a secondary code, often delivered to a trusted device, to obtain access even if they are able to figure out your password.

This small step can make all the difference. As Mirror US reports, the UK's Action Fraud highlighted the importance of enabling 2SV,“Secure your email account by enabling 2-step verification (2SV). It can stop criminals from getting into your accounts, even if they have your password.”

Google's warning isn't just for those who may have been targeted. Since email accounts are frequently used as the entry point to social media, banking, and shopping accounts, a hijacked Gmail account might lead to far more serious issues. Don't wait to get hacked-that's the obvious message. Modify your password, activate 2SV, and ward from scammers.

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