Google issues an urgent warning following the Salesforce data breach, urging Gmail users to strengthen security to prevent potential hacker exploitation.
Google has issued an urgent warning to all Gmail users after detecting a wave of cyberattacks linked to a data breach on Salesforce’s cloud platform. While Google’s own systems remain secure, the incident poses a potential risk as hackers may exploit stolen data for sophisticated scams and deceptive schemes.
According to Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG), the attacks began in June when hackers used social engineering tactics—posing as IT staff—to deceive users. By August, TAG confirmed that the group had carried out several “successful intrusions” by exploiting compromised passwords.
Although the stolen data primarily consists of basic, publicly available business information, hackers under the “ShinyHunters” brand may be planning to escalate their extortion tactics, including creating data leak sites (DLS) to pressure victims, including those affected by the recent UNC6040 Salesforce-related breaches.
Google urges Gmail users to remain vigilant, monitor accounts closely, and strengthen security measures such as two-factor authentication, regularly updating passwords, and avoiding sharing sensitive information with unverified sources. With over 2.5 billion users worldwide, protecting personal information has never been more crucial.