Gmail Users At Risk: Google Warns 2.5 Billion Of Users To Update Passwords Now

If you use Gmail, this one’s for you. Google has issued a fresh warning to its massive user base — nearly 2.5 billion people worldwide, after noticing a spike in hacking attempts. The tech giant is asking users to immediately update their passwords and enable extra security features to protect their accounts. Also Read: 7 Fun Things You Can Do With Google Maps

Hackers have been using phishing emails, those deceptive links that look like official login pages, to steal passwords and even two-step verification (2SV) codes. Google revealed that one of the groups behind these attacks is ShinyHunters, a hacker collective linked to several big data breaches in recent years, including AT&T, Microsoft, Santander, and Ticketmaster. Also Read: Pixel 9 Series Could Soon Support AirDrop File Sharing Via Quick Share

While much of the stolen data so far has been public information, the concern is that these attacks could soon turn into more targeted, damaging campaigns. Google believes that ShinyHunters may even set up a dedicated site to leak stolen data.

What Google Is Advising

On August 8, Google notified potentially affected users through email. The company is urging everyone to:

• Update their Gmail passwords, especially if they haven’t changed them in a while.
• Turn on two-step verification (2SV), also known as 2FA or MFA. This adds a second layer of protection, like a code sent to your phone, so hackers can’t break in even if they have your password.
• Experts agree this simple step is one of the most effective ways to block hackers. As Action Fraud puts it, turning on 2SV “can stop criminals from getting into your accounts, even if they have your password.”

How You Can Stay Safe

It only takes a few minutes to secure your Gmail account. Make sure to:

• Check your Google Account Security settings.
• Always enable two-step factor authentication.
• Be cautious of suspicious emails or links pretending to be from Google or IT support.

Given the scale of Gmail’s user base, even a small percentage of successful hacks could put millions at risk. The bottom line: if you haven’t updated your Gmail security recently, now’s the time.