Gmail accounts at risk as attacks rise

Google has urged Gmail users to upgrade their account security after revealing that over 60% have been targeted by cyberattacks. Despite the increasing threat, most people still rely on outdated protections like passwords and SMS-based two-factor authentication.

Google is now pushing users to adopt passkeys and social sign-ins to improve their defences. Passkeys offer phishing-resistant access and use biometric methods such as fingerprint or facial recognition tied to a user’s device, removing the need for traditional passwords.

While digitally savvy Gen Z users are more likely to adopt these new methods, but many still reuse passwords, leaving their accounts exposed to breaches and scams. Google emphasised that passwords are both insecure and inconvenient and called on users to switch to tools that offer stronger protection.

Microsoft, meanwhile, has gone even further by encouraging users to eliminate passwords entirely. Google’s long-term goal is to simplify sign-ins while increasing security across its platforms.

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