Google warns against weak passwords amid £12bn scams
2-Step Verification and passkeys now essential to protect your email.
Gmail users are being urged to upgrade their security as online scams continue to rise sharply, with cyber criminals stealing over £12 billion in the past year alone. Google is warning that simple passwords leave people vulnerable to phishing and account takeovers.
To combat the threat, users are encouraged to switch to passkeys or use ‘Sign in with Google’, both of which offer stronger protections through fingerprint, face ID or PIN verification. Over 60% of Baby Boomers and Gen X users still rely on weak passwords, increasing their exposure to attacks.
Despite the availability of secure alternatives, only 30% of users reportedly use them daily. Gen Z is leading the shift by adopting newer tools, bypassing outdated security habits altogether.
Google recommends adding 2-Step Verification for those unwilling to leave passwords behind. With scams growing more sophisticated, extra security measures are no longer optional, they are essential.
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