Millions of Gmail users warned to make change immediately after 'red alert'

Google account holders are being warned to activate a "known senders" setting as hackers have devised a new method of attack, exploiting Google Calendar's features. According to cybersecurity experts at Check Point, the scam begins with seemingly harmless emails that invite users to add an event to their calendar.

These emails often appear legitimate, as they seem to come directly from Google Calendar and may even use names of well-known companies to lure victims—around 300 brands have reportedly been mimicked so far. If deceived, individuals risk surrendering personal information to fraudsters who can then potentially access their finances.

"Due to Google Calendar's popularity and efficiency in everyday tasks, it is no wonder it has become a target for cyber criminals," said Check Point. The firm also noted that "Recently, cyber security researchers at Check Point, have observed cyber criminal manipulation of dedicated Google tools – namely Google Calendar and Google Drawings."

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They added, "Many of the emails appear legitimate because they appear to directly originate from Google Calendar."

It's a growing threat that shouldn't be ignored, with Check Point saying researchers have spotted around 4,000 of these phishing emails in a four-week period, reports the Mirror.

• The initial emails include a link or the calendar file (.ics) with a link to Google Forms or Google Drawings.

• Users are then asked to click on another link, which is often disguised as a fake reCAPTCHA or support button.

• After clicking on the link, the user is forwarded to a page that looks like a cryptocurrency mining landing page or bitcoin support page.

• These pages are