Google’s New Warning for Gmail Users – Check Your Account Immediately

If you use Gmail or have a Google account, now is the time to check your settings. Google is warning users to improve their account security after reports show online scams caused over £12 billion in losses in 2024 alone.

According to new stats from the FBI, cyberattacks increased by 33% in just one year. A big part of the problem? Weak passwords. Millions of people still use easy-to-guess passwords like “123456”, “qwerty”, or even “password” — making them easy targets for hackers.

Google Wants You to Stop Using Passwords

Google is now encouraging everyone to ditch traditional passwords and switch to safer sign-in options like:

• Sign in with Google

• Passkeys

• 2-Step Verification (2SV)

These modern tools allow you to log in using things like fingerprints or face recognition, instead of typing a password. Google says this makes your account much harder for scammers to break into.

“We want to move beyond passwords altogether,” said Evan Kotsovinos, Google’s Head of Account Security.

Older Users at Risk

While younger people (especially Gen Z) are already using these advanced tools, over 60% of Gen X and Baby Boomers still use old-fashioned passwords.

Google reports that only 30% of people use tools like passkeys or biometric logins every day — even though most smartphones support them.

Easy Ways to Protect Your Google Account

If you’re not ready to give up passwords completely, Google suggests adding 2-Step Verification. This feature sends a code to your phone, making it harder for hackers to log in even if they know your password.

You can also use:

• Google Authenticator App

• Google Password Manager (to store and sync strong passwords safely)
  “Passkeys are phishing-resistant and let you log in with just your face or fingerprint,” added Kotsovinos. “Using them with your Google Account is the best way to stay protected.”

Don’t Wait – Update Your Security Today

Cybercrime is rising, and scammers are always looking for weak targets. If you want to stay safe online:

• Use passkeys or Sign in with Google

• Turn on 2-Step Verification

• Stop using simple or repeated passwords

It takes just a few minutes — but could save your data, money, and peace of mind.