Gmail users are being urged to keep an eye on their inboxes for a convincing scam that could steal their personal details.
The scam presents itself as an "Online Reward Program" to users. Once users open the email, they are often told that they have made the 18.25 billionth search on Google and they should expect a reward.
However, this is really just a ploy for scammers to trick users into handing over critical personal data such as credit card details, the Mirror reports. One copy of the email opens with: "Congratulations! You are the lucky Google user!"
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"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!"
Users are then urged to click on a link in order to claim the prize. But, there is no gift actually to be claimed and is just a way for hackers to try and steal money and even identities.
Now, Google is urging its users to remain vigilant. On its advice page, Google wrote: "You encounter a pop-up advertisement on your mobile device or computer from a website you are browsing.
"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."
To help its users, Google has also issued some important Golden Rules which include:
- 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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