New 'convincing' Gmail scam is tricking users into giving up personal details

A new Gmail scam is circulating which sees fraudsters impersonate Google and trick you into handing over personal information - here's how to spot the scam

Brits have been put on high alert about a new, particularly "convincing" Gmail scam which could seriously jeopardise account security.

Which? the consumer watchdog, has announced that scammers are impersonating Google by 'spoofing' an email from no-reply@google and concocting a false Google support page in a phishing ploy that dupes Gmail users into revealing their personal info.

The scam starts with a deceptive email claiming to come from no-reply@google. com, under a header that reads "Security alert," It informs the targeted individual that they've been issued a subpoena requiring access to their Google account.

A link is provided, supposedly leading them to a "Google support case" where they can view or dispute the order, reports the Express.

This hyperlink redirects victims to a fraudulent site, deceptively similar to an official Google support page hosted on sites.google.com, prompting them to log in to check the details of the alleged case.

Which?'s Tali Ramsey commented on the murky progression of the con, stating: "It's unclear where the scam goes.

"It will most likely lead to malware being downloaded to your device or you being pressured to enter your personal and financial data, giving it over to the scammers."

Confirming efforts to combat this threat, Google stated that the method used to distribute these emails has been shut down, reinforcing that it never solicits direct submission of credentials like passwords or other sensitive authentication information through such communications.

A Google spokesperson assured Which?: "We're aware of this class of targeted attack from this threat actor and have rolled out protections to shut down this avenue for abuse.

"In the meantime, we encourage users to adopt two-factor authentication and passkeys, which provide strong protection against these kinds of phishing campaigns."

If you believe you've been targeted by a scam, it's crucial to report it to Action Fraud.