Gmail Users Beware: FBI Warns of AI-Powered Scam That Can Steal Your Account
RALEIGH, NC – The FBI has issued a warning to Gmail users about a sophisticated, AI-driven scam where fraudsters pose as Google customer support representatives to steal personal information and gain access to email accounts.
According to reports, scammers use artificial intelligence (AI) technology to impersonate real people, tricking Gmail users into thinking they are communicating with legitimate Google representatives.
How the Scam Works
- Fake Google Support Call – Scammers use AI-generated voices to call Gmail users, falsely claiming that their account is at risk of being hacked from an overseas location.
- Spoofed Caller ID – Using advanced caller ID spoofing, the call appears to come from Google, adding credibility to the scam.
- Phishing Email Follow-Up – Shortly after the call, users receive an official-looking email mimicking Google’s branding, reinforcing the fraudulent claim that their account has been compromised.
- Account Recovery Trap – When users attempt to reset their password using the provided link, they unknowingly hand over their login credentials to the scammers.
- Account Takeover – Once access is gained, scammers can lock users out of their Gmail accounts and potentially infiltrate linked services such as bank accounts, cryptocurrency wallets, social media profiles, and cloud storage.
How to Protect Yourself
The FBI urges Gmail users to take the following precautions:
Ignore Unsolicited Calls – Google does not make unsolicited calls about account security. If you receive one, hang up immediately.
Verify Emails Directly – Instead of clicking links in emails, visit Google’s official website or security dashboard to check for alerts.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Use Google’s passkeys, smart keys, or authenticator apps to add an extra layer of security.
Watch for Red Flags – Google emails come from @google.com addresses—never click on links from unknown senders.
Report Suspicious Activity – If you receive a phishing attempt, report it to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov and to Google at support.google.com.
Growing Threat of AI-Powered Scams
The rise of AI-generated deepfake voices and phishing emails has made online scams more convincing and harder to detect. Cybersecurity experts warn that fraudsters are now using AI to craft personalized attacks, making it crucial for users to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their accounts.
For more information on Google’s security tools, visit safety.google.