Google urges Gmail users to change passwords amid rising hack threats

(Web Desk): If you use Gmail and haven’t changed your account password in a long time, it’s a good idea to do so now.

This advice has been issued by Google for its users to help secure their accounts.

The recommendation comes in light of recent reports of data breaches affecting Gmail systems.

Google issued notifications to 2.5 billion users at the end of July and again on August 8, warning them that hackers have intensified their efforts to steal login credentials.

In a recent security advisory, Google revealed that the number of hacked or stolen passwords accounts for approximately 37% of total accounts.

The company identified a group called “ShinyHunters” which has created a data leak site aimed at extorting money from users.

According to Google, the first and most basic step to prevent such threats is to change your password immediately and make it a habit to update it every few months.

Google further suggested switching from traditional passwords to passkeys, a login method that uses biometric data such as fingerprints or facial recognition to access accounts. This method makes it significantly harder for hackers to gain control.

Beyond passkeys, Google also advised users to stop relying on SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) and instead use an authenticator app for added security.