GOOGLE is warning all email users over dangerous emails that can be used to scam or hack you.
The fraudulent emails are designed to look like an official Google alert – but are very sinister.
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Google sometimes receives government requests for your info.
This is usually for “civil, administrative, criminal, and national security purposes”.
Google will flag these requests to account holders via email – but scammers create fraudulent versions of the messages to hoodwink you.
“When we notify the account holder about a legal request, we do so by email,” Google explained.
“In these emails, Google will not ask for any personal information such as a password or social security number.
“If you get an email purportedly from Google that asks for this type of information, don’t provide it.
“The email is probably a scam, so please report it to us.”
This is a classic phishing scam, because it will seem threatening and urgent.
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These deceptive requests are designed to steal your private info – or click dangerous links.
And this can ultimately be used to defraud you or steal your money.
“Phishing is an attempt to steal personal information or break in to online accounts using deceptive emails, messages, ads, or sites that look similar to sites you already use,” Google explained.
“For example, a phishing email might look like it’s from your bank and request private information about your bank account.”
An official Google memo warned users to watch out for messages that ask for very sensitive details.
This includes requesting your personal or financial information, or asking you to click links or download software.
The emails can often look exactly like a message from an organisation that you trust.
So you should check directly with Google if you think a message is asking for overly sensitive info.
Don’t use contact details included in the email, as they may be fraudulent.
Instead, use details listed on the official website or app.
