Google, Facebook, and Amazon Face Surge in Password-Stealing Attacks: Kaspersky Report

A recent threat analysis by Kaspersky, highlighted on Forbes.com, has uncovered a sharp increase in password-stealing attacks aimed at users of Amazon, Facebook, and especially Google. Here’s what you need to know about this alarming trend.

Google, Facebook, and Amazon: Prime Targets for Password Hackers

It’s no surprise that cybercriminals are heavily targeting Gmail, Facebook, and Amazon accounts. These platforms are goldmines for hackers, as they can facilitate a range of cybercrimes, from data theft and malware distribution to credit card fraud. Google accounts are particularly valuable, often serving as a master key that unlocks other accounts and personal information, making them a prime target for cybercriminals. Think about the sensitive data stored in your Gmail inbox, and it’s clear why these accounts are so highly sought after. Moreover, many organizations still send password reset requests and two-factor authentication links to email accounts, adding to their vulnerability.

Kaspersky’s research analyzed 25 of the most popular global brands to identify those most frequently targeted by phishing attacks. The findings were staggering: during the first half of 2024 alone, there were approximately 26 million attempts to access malicious sites disguised as these brands, marking a 40% increase from the same period in 2023.

Phishing Attacks on Google Soar by 243%

Google remains the top target for phishing attacks, with a 243% increase in attempts recorded in the first six months of 2024. Kaspersky reported blocking around 4 million of these attacks during this period. According to Olga Svistunova, a security expert at Kaspersky, gaining access to a Gmail account can provide cybercriminals with entry into multiple services, making it an attractive target.

Facebook users were not far behind, with 3.7 million phishing attempts, while Amazon saw 3 million. Other brands on the top ten phishing targets list include Microsoft, DHL, PayPal, Mastercard, Apple, Netflix, and Instagram. Additionally, Kaspersky noted a significant increase in attacks on brands like HSBC, eBay, Airbnb, American Express, and LinkedIn.

Kaspersky researchers attribute this rise to an increase in fraudulent activity, not a decline in user vigilance. For advice on protecting yourself from phishing attacks, visit the online resources provided by Google, Facebook, and Amazon