Google has warned Gmail users about common tactics used by hackers to lock them out of their accounts. These include session cookie theft, two-factor authentication bypass attacks, and link obfuscation methods. However, with proper setup and use of recovery options, users can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these attacks.
To protect your account, Google recommends setting up a recovery phone number and email address in addition to your password. The recovery phone number is used to regain control of your account if an attacker changes it after hijacking your credentials. You have up to 7 days to use this number to recover your account.
Setting up recovery options is easy. On Android, you can open the settings app, go to “Google” and then “Manage your Google account,” select the security section, and choose whether to add or change a recovery phone number or email address. Make sure the phone number used for recovery is one that belongs only to you and is regularly used.
Recovery email addresses should be different from the one used to sign into your Google/Gmail account but are also regularly used. If you’re having trouble setting up recovery options, try again a week later using the same device or from another device regularly used to sign into your Google account.
Google’s AI-based protections block over 99.9% of spam, phishing attempts, and malware, including link obfuscation methods. However, using security keys instead of two-factor authentication codes sent by SMS or apps can provide stronger protection against automated bots and bulk phishing attacks.
By following these tips and setting up recovery options, you can significantly improve the security of your Gmail account and reduce the risk of falling victim to hacker tactics.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/daveywinder/2024/12/07/gmail-takeover-hack-attack-google-warns-you-have-just-7-days-to-act