Google issues critical safety alert to billions – search texts and inbox for ‘danger phrase’ you must not ignore
AN official scam warning has been released to users of a major Google-owned brand.
The tech giant invested in YouTube back in 2006, and it’s now a common brand for cybercriminals to imitate.
YouTube is said to be investigating a new type of scam that uses its name and an email address similar to its own.
The official @TeamYouTube Twitter account recently tweeted the warning.
It said: “heads up: we’re seeing reports of a phishing attempt showing no-reply@youtube.com as the sender.
“be cautious & don’t download/access any file if you get this email.”
The official YouTube account the directed users to its phishing advice page.
It also retweeted tech influencer and content creator Kevin Breeze.
Breeze had previously tweeted an example of the scam email he received.
He wrote: “Be careful. Session hijackers are now spoofing the YouTube email address! This is very serious. Don’t fall for it.”
The convincing but bogus email mentions “Change in YouTube rules and policies.”
It appears to contain a malicious file that recipients are asked to download.
If you receive the email you should report and delete it without clicking the link.
HOW TO AVOID A PHISHING SCAM
Firstly, you should be thorough when checking who the email is from.
Even if it looks official, double-check the email and look for any spelling mistakes or slight abnormalities in the sender’s email address.
Never feel pressurised into opening an attachment and avoid clicking the phrase “enable content.”
You should also be wary of links in emails.
If you’re certain an email you have received is a scam, report it to your email provider and delete it.