Recently, many major outlets reported that Google had issued a global alert to its 2.5 billion Gmail users due to a breach. However, this was entirely false. Google never sent such an alert, and the breach only affected a small group of business contact details.
What can you learn from this incident? First, check the source of the news. If it’s coming from a trusted publication, look for discrepancies with other outlets. Then, go straight to Google’s official blog or social media accounts for confirmation.
If an alert tells you to change your password, update it anyway as part of your regular cybersecurity routine. Adding two-factor authentication can provide extra security, and some services offer this feature. Consider using a biometric-based system instead of passwords in the future.
Older devices may present a hurdle, but there’s a workaround: physical security keys that store passkeys. These FIDO2-certified tokens work like biometrics without requiring special hardware.
By being cautious and informed, you can control how you respond to concerning tech alerts and keep your online life focused on family and fun – not phantom hacks.
Source: https://www.standard.net/lifestyle/2025/sep/10/tech-matters-what-you-can-learn-from-the-fake-news-about-a-gmail-breach-alert