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If You Got A Suspicious Sign-In Warning On Gmail, Do Not Click Anything Yet

Google has confirmed a massive scam targeting 1.8 billion Gmail users with fake sign-in alerts. If you got one recently, here is exactly what you should and should not do.

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Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom
  • Fake Gmail alerts trick users into revealing passwords.
  • Scammers use fake Google sign-in warnings to steal data.
  • Clicking links can download malware, giving hackers phone control.

If you have received a warning on your phone saying your Gmail account has been compromised, stop before you click anything. Google has confirmed that cybercriminals are sending fake "suspicious sign-in prevented" alerts to Gmail users, designed to look exactly like official Google notifications. 

The goal is simple: trick you into clicking a link that opens a fake Google webpage, stealing your password and phone number. With 1.8 billion Gmail users worldwide, the threat is massive.

How This Scam Is Fooling Gmail Users Around The World

The alarm was raised in February when a Reddit user reported receiving a message from what appeared to be "Gmail from Google," claiming their account was compromised.

"Previously, there were several emails informing me that there were 'sign-on attempts' from a few IP addresses located in Venezuela, Bangladesh, etc," the Gmail user posted.

The user panicked and clicked the link. "Normally, I would recognise this as phishing, but it had never happened on the phone before, and I clicked on the link, 'signing on,' which gave the scammer my Gmail password," they admitted.

Google acknowledged the threat, warning: "Always be wary of messages that ask for personal information like usernames, passwords, or other identification information, or send you to unfamiliar websites asking for this information." Google confirmed in August 2025 that hackers had been stepping up attacks on Gmail globally.

What Happens To Your Phone If Yu Click The Link

Once you open the malicious link, particularly on Android devices, malware disguised as a "Google security check" can be downloaded, giving hackers complete control over your phone, including remote access and data theft.

Google recommends going directly to your Google Account, navigating to Security, reviewing "Recent security events," and securing your account immediately without clicking any link in the warning message. Experts also strongly urge enabling two-factor authentication.

"2FA can be annoying or cumbersome at times, but with it on, you should be fine from now on. Faith in the Authenticator app!" one Reddit user advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

I received a Gmail security alert saying my account was compromised. Should I click the link?

No, do not click any links in suspicious Gmail alerts. Cybercriminals are sending fake notifications that look like official Google messages to steal your password.

How do these fake Gmail alerts work?

The scam sends fake 'suspicious sign-in prevented' emails. Clicking the link leads to a fake Google page designed to steal your password and phone number.

What happens if I click the link on my Android phone?

Clicking the link can download malware disguised as a Google security check, giving hackers control of your phone, including remote access and data theft.

How should I check for suspicious activity on my Gmail account safely?

Go directly to your Google Account, navigate to Security, and review 'Recent security events'. Secure your account immediately without clicking any links in the warning message.

About the author Annie Sharma

Annie Sharma is a technology journalist at ABP Live English, focused on breaking down complex tech stories into clear, reader-friendly narratives. Gaining hands-on experience in digital storytelling and news writing with leading publications, Annie believes technology should feel accessible rather than overwhelming, and follows a clear, reader-first approach in her work.

For tips and queries, you can reach out to her at annies@abpnetwork.com.

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