FBI cautions: Artificial intelligence-based phishing attacks have increased on Gmail accounts
Gmail users are reportedly facing increasingly sophisticated phishing attacks lately, prompting the US FBI to issue a stern warning to users of the email service: don't click on anything in unknown emails or messages.
Here's What We Know
Cybercriminals are now using artificial intelligence-based tools to create convincing phishing campaigns that can bypass security filters. The risks are higher than ever, and Gmail accounts are a prime target because of their access to various Google services.
A recent report by Hoxhunt highlights a 49% increase in phishing attacks that bypass security measures. Threats created by artificial intelligence now account for 4.7% of phishing attempts, with attackers using automation to create convincing messages.
Cybersecurity experts warn that artificial intelligence is fuelling a new wave of social engineering tactics, making it easier for hackers to deceive victims. The low cost of artificial intelligence tools is a big problem. Hackers can now create robust phishing plans for as little as $5, making it easier for them to target both people and companies.
To protect yourself from phishing attacks, the FBI and Google recommend the following steps:
- Don't click on links or download files from unknown emails or messages.
- Never enter personal information on websites unless you are sure they are authentic.
- Use a password manager to automatically fill in credentials only on trusted sites.
- Monitor your accounts for signs of unauthorised access or data breaches.
- To check for security alerts, go directly to your Google account page rather than using links in emails.
For more information on protecting your Gmail account, check out this link.
Source: Forbes
