The FBI has issued guidance to American citizens on how to approach potential phishing scams targeting their Gmail inboxes. Phishing attacks aim to access personal information such as Social Security numbers and bank account details, resulting in significant financial losses.
In 2022, $8.8 billion was stolen through online scams, with phishing attacks surging by 49% since 2022. AI-generated threats now make up nearly 5% of all phishing attempts. Gmail users are particularly vulnerable due to the potential for hacking one account compromising others.
To protect yourself, be cautious of unsolicited emails or texts. Verify the company’s phone number independently and call to confirm legitimacy. Examine email addresses, URLs, and spelling carefully, as scammers use minor differences to gain trust.
Federal authorities continue to counter scammers with public information campaigns. If you receive a suspicious email, delete it without clicking on links. The FBI advises looking up official websites instead of following provided links.
According to the Hoxhunt Phishing Trends Report, released in February 2023, phishing attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Staying informed and taking precautions is essential to avoid falling victim to these scams.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/fbi-shares-advice-sophisticated-gmail-phishing-attacks-2028934