Google reminds users that it will never call you or email you about account issues or to change your password. — Pixabay
Google users are once again being advised to make major changes to how they access their account as ongoing scams become more advanced. According to Forbes, Google suggests users remove password-only access to their accounts by adding a passkey or stronger forms of two-factor authentication.
The latest warning comes after Instagram boss Adam Mosseri revealed he was recently the target of a sophisticated scam. The scam involved a phone call from someone claiming to be with Google about his account being compromised. An email, from what appeared to be a legitimate Gmail address soon followed, advising Mosseri to change his password.
Google eventually found the source of the attack and suspended the accounts connected to it. However, the ordeal serves as a reminder of steps Google says its users need to take to protect themselves as the ongoing attacks are becoming harder to decipher.
Google reminds users that it will never call you or email you about account issues or to change your password. If you receive a phone call or email from someone claiming to be from Google about those issues, it is a scam.
The tech giant suggests that users remove password-only access to their account and begin using a Passkey. A Passkey allows users to sign in using a physical device like your phone by using your fingerprint, face scan, or phone screen lock.
Users should also be using two-factor authentication, but not one that involves SMS text messages or email as they can be intercepted. Instead, using the Passkey or an authentication app is recommended at a minimum.
Google again reminds users that it will never call or email you about changing a password or to resolve account issues. It will also never ask for your password, or to use a one-time password for account access. If you receive a message claiming to be from Google and have concerns about the legitimacy, you can contact Google through several publicly available options. – mlive.com/Tribune News Service
