Global Warning; AI-Powered Scam Targets Gmail Users
Gmail users worldwide have been issued a “red alert” warning over a sophisticated AI-powered scam that could lead to devastating financial losses and identity theft. The scam, first identified by the FBI last year, has seen a surge in cases, with cybercriminals using artificial intelligence to craft convincing phone calls and emails designed to steal recovery codes and gain full access to victims’ Google accounts.
The scam typically begins with a phone call informing the target that their Gmail account has been compromised. Shortly after, victims receive seemingly legitimate emails from what appears to be a Google domain, urging them to provide their recovery code to “restore” their account. Once hackers obtain the recovery code, they gain access not only to the victim’s Gmail but also to linked services such as Google Calendar, Google Drive, and any accounts using the “Sign In With Google” feature.
Microsoft solutions consultant Sam Mitrovic, who narrowly avoided falling victim to the scam, described it as “increasingly sophisticated, more convincing, and deployed at ever larger scale.” He warned that many people are likely to be tricked due to the scam’s authentic appearance. FBI Special Agent Robert Tripp echoed these concerns, stating that attackers are leveraging AI to create highly convincing communications, resulting in significant financial and reputational damage.
To protect themselves, Gmail users are advised to enable multi-factor authentication, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and monitor their accounts for unauthorised access. Cybersecurity experts also recommend using password managers and ensuring devices are updated with the latest security patches. The FBI and cybersecurity firms continue to monitor the situation as the scam evolves, urging vigilance among all Gmail users.
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