How to Get Rid of the Google Critical Security Alert Scam

Google’s critical security alert scam has been making the rounds. It can be hard to tell if it’s a real warning or a phishing attack. 

Cyber criminals are tricking users into calling a toll-free number or visiting a website. Once a user falls into the trap, they will be prompted to provide their personal information. This includes credit card details and social security numbers.

Scams are getting more advanced, especially with Google given the number of people who use Google services. You may have also come across the Google voice scam so be sure to check out ways to prevent it. 

Why am I getting critical security alerts from Google? 

Google sends critical security alerts to your email address when they suspect that you may be at risk. You could be potentially compromised by a phishing attack or malware infection.

Such alerts mean that there is a high likelihood that someone knows your password. If so, the exposed information could be used to access your account or device without your permission.

Is the critical security alert from Google real? 

If you’ve received a notification from Google about a critical security alert, rest assured that it’s legitimate. However, you also need to be weary of what a fake email looks like. It is almost identical to the real thing, but contains a link to a malicious website instead of the real one. 

The sites look similar and can be hard to tell apart at first glance. But, if you spot any red flags such as misspelled words or unusual formatting, don’t click on them.

Does Google send security alert texts?

Google will send an alert to your email if they detect a security breach. You may also get the alert in form of a notification on your browser. It is best to respond immediately after potential data exposure to secure your account.

How do I get rid of critical security alert?

1. Go to Google Account Help

1. Navigate to your browser and go to Google Account Help page.
2. Scroll down and select Account security.
3. Click on Suspicious activity.
4. Select the Investigate suspicious activity on your account option.
5. Now in the list that appears, select a setting you suspect has unfamiliar changes and rectify it.

How can I prevent Google’s critical security alert scam? 

To avoid falling victim to the Google security alert scam, you need to stay vigilant. Scams always have some red flags. These tips below will help you prevent such scams:

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• Don’t open suspicious attachments – If you were not expecting an attachment, avoid opening any. Unsolicited attachments could contain malicious code.
• Check your account activity – Your account activity is a detailed trail of what you have been doing. It will show you all the logins and accesses made on your account in recent months. If you notice any unfamiliar sign-ins, your account may have been compromised.

• Change your password – Changing your password is important in case someone has been using it without permission. Also, use strong passwords.
• Enable two-factor authentication – Using multi-authentication software is a good security step in general. However, it’s especially important if you think your account may have been compromised. It will require anyone trying to access your account from an unverified device or IP address to enter a code. You will receive the code via text message or Google Authenticator.

Aside from the Google critical security alert scam email, you may also come across the Paypal Bitcoin scam email. Luckily, we have an article on how to spot and avoid it too.

As always, it is a good idea to install a reliable antivirus program that can detect any malicious activities from miles away and help secure your data.

Alternatively, you can opt for secure browsers that have security measures in place to avoid viruses and online threats.

If you are using the Chrome browser, you can install antivirus and security extensions to add an extra layer of protection.

Also, read about The “HoeflerText” font wasn’t found scam and protect your PC against all online threats!

Have you been a victim of such a scam before? Let us know what red flags you may have missed in the comments section below.