Urgent warning from Google for all Gmail users – how to avoid becoming a victim

GMAIL users are warned about a series of deceptive emails being sent to accounts.

Registered users are receiving a huge amount of fake emails as we head into the holidays – and are being told to be extra careful.

1

Google currently estimates that it managed to block nearly 15 billion unwanted messages from arriving in Gmail inboxes in a single day.

And they believe they stopped over 231 billion spam and phishing messages in the last two weeks.

Insiders estimate that’s about 10 percent more than what Google typically detects in the same period.

Google said: “These scammers are annoying and persistent at the best of times, but during the holiday season their behavior is even more extreme.

“That’s why we have a dedicated team of Google employees working around the clock to thwart these uninvited guests.”

Even though Google has successfully blocked billions of spam messages, some still slip through the net.

As a result, experts have issued new warnings that users should remain vigilant.

They add that you should not open a message if you are unsure whether to start clicking on links or submitting personal information.

This could get you in serious trouble.

According to Google, some of the most common credit card scams include the following.

Vouchers and giveaways

Scammers can try to trick people into buying a gift card for them if they give out their credit card information.

They can also pretend to be a known contact to make their trick more convincing.

charities

During fundraising season, scammers may try to ask you to send them money directly under the guise of a charity.

They will usually ask you to contact them via their personal email address.

demographic targeting

Scammers may try to include a certain element of your life or identity in their email to make it appear more legitimate.

Subscription Renewals

As we near the end of the year, fake antivirus services – which lure their victims with promises of improved security – tend to rise.

While some scammers can make their message look very convincing, you should always check the sender’s email.

If it looks dodgy, it might be fraudulent.

crypto scam

Crypto-based scams are also rampant this time of year, with the most common being cryptocurrency wallets.

Experts advise users to check typos, email addresses or messages requesting payment.

It comes as Google has also released a huge update for Chrome, which you should install as soon as possible.

It fixes dozens of vulnerabilities that could allow hackers to take control of your devices, private information, and more.