Gmail users have been issued an urgent warning to change their settings following the detection of a new cyber attack. Google is urging users to take action, especially if they use Google Calendar, as hackers have been targeting users with deceptive emails. These emails prompt users to add a date to their calendar and appear legitimate as they mimic emails from popular firms. By clicking on the link in these emails, victims may unknowingly give away personal data that could lead to financial loss and identity theft.
Security experts at Check Point have observed cyber criminals manipulating Google tools such as Google Calendar and Google Drawings to carry out phishing attacks. The hackers send convincing emails that seem to originate from Google Calendar, tricking users into clicking on malicious links. According to Check Point researchers, around 4,000 phishing emails have been identified in a four-week period using this method.
To protect against this type of attack, Google is advising users to be cautious and not accept calendar invites from unknown senders. Users can enable the “known senders” setting on Google Calendar, which alerts them when receiving invitations from unfamiliar contacts. This extra layer of security can help prevent falling victim to phishing scams.
In light of the increasing sophistication of cyber attacks, it is essential for users to stay vigilant and regularly review their security settings to safeguard their personal information online. By remaining cautious and proactive, individuals can minimise the risk of falling prey to malicious activities on the internet. Stay informed, stay secure.