What does this terrifying Google Alert really mean?
Hannah Walsh, 1st January 2017, General
Have you received this message? Did you wonder what on earth it meant? Well don't worry because you're not alone.
The alert reads:
"Government-backed attackers may be trying to steal your password."
Terrifying isn't it? It caused a lot of confusion for Gmail users who were not sure of the alert's credibility. But we can confirm this is a legitimate message from Google and can be found on their Security Blog.
The message continues to explain that:
- This happens to less than 0.1% of all Gmail Users
- They cannot explain what tipped them off because the attackers will take note and change their tactics
- They advise you to take out further security such, as a setting up a Security Key or installing a Password Alert
But what does it all mean
In short, Google have reason to believe that there is an exterior source trying to hack into your account to obtain your email password. We spoke with a Senior Web Developer who said,
"The fact that they are noted as Government-backed, means they will most likely be an experienced hacker so you need to act quickly, do not ignore the message."
Google have released the following statement:
"We send these warnings out of an abundance of caution — they do not indicate that a user's account has already been compromised or that a more widespread attack is occurring when they receive the notice. Anyone that receives one should follow the instructions in the warning, and we further recommend that all users routinely do a Google Account Security Checkup."
"We further recommend that all users routinely do a Google Account Security Checkup."
So in summary, this alert is real, follow Google's instructions, and then re-set your passwords immediately. Here is some extra reading on creating strong passwords.
Related articles
Monthly Newsletter
Not signed up to our monthly newsletters and would like to keep up to date with a variety of products? Select from below which products you would like to receive.
No Product! Please select a product
