Google has issued a warning to all Gmail users after details of a new scam emerged. UK victims lost £1.3bn in 2021 amid surge in online fraud, data shows, revealing the extent of the problem.
Authorised push payment fraud (APP), where victims are tricked into making a payment, has been rising sharply. In the new alert a con has been uncovered which aims to get personal data from victims.
The new alert revolved around a message from Google in your inbox with a subject line that reads “Online Reward Program”. Once opened the message suggests that you have just made the 18.25 billionth search on Google and that means a reward is coming your way, the Mirror reports.
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“Congratulations! You are the lucky Google user!” the email exclaims. “Every 10 millionth search is reached worldwide, we will proclaim a lucky user to send out a thank-you gift. You are the lucky user!”
Those receiving the message are then urged to click a link to claim the prize. Of course, there is no gift and this is just a simple way for hackers to siphon personal data which can then be used to steal money and identities.
Google is now urging its users to remain vigilant when checking their inboxes and report anything suspicious. “You encounter a pop-up advertisement on your mobile device or computer from a website you are browsing,” Google explains on its advice page. “The pop-up claims that you have won a gift from Google, and are asked to answer several questions to claim the gift. It’s possible that the pop-up may also ask you to enter your email or other personal information.
“Google does not offer spontaneous prizes in this format and you will not win a prize by completing the survey or entering your personal information. Close out of the pop-up window and do not enter your personal information.
“You receive an email claiming that you’ve won a Google Lottery and are asked for personal details. In some cases the scammers also impersonate customs or tax officials and will ask you to provide additional information or pay a fee to release the funds (such as a money release fee, currency exchange, courier or shipping fees, tax fees, etc.).
“Google does not run lotteries, and your email address has not been selected to win a prize. Do not reply back with your personal details. Unfortunately, unscrupulous people sometimes try to use the Google brand to scam and defraud others.”
Google Golden Rules to avoid being scammed
Slow it down - Scams are often designed to create a sense of urgency. Take time to ask questions and think it through.
Spot check - Do your research to double check the details you are getting. Does what they’re telling you make sense?
Stop! Don’t send - No reputable person or agency will ever demand payment or your personal information on the spot.
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