Gmail users under attack: Hackers breach Google accounts
Hacker attack (Illustrative photo: Getty Images)
The hacker group ShinyHunters has breached a Google database, putting the security of 2.5 billion Gmail accounts at risk, according to Daily Mail.
Investigations indicate that the accounts of 2.5 billion Gmail users worldwide are potentially compromised as a result of the hack.
The hackers were able to steal a large number of business files containing client contact information and company names after tricking a Google employee into revealing their login credentials in June 2025.
Although Google assures that user passwords were not stolen, experts warn that the stolen information is already being actively used in phishing attacks.
For example, users are widely reporting suspicious calls and emails allegedly from Google employees. The attackers attempt to trick people into revealing their passwords or verification codes.
Cybersecurity expert James Knight told Daily Mail that this breach could become one of the most dangerous in history: “If you do get a text message or a voice message from Google, don't trust it's from Google. Nine times out of ten, it's likely not.”
The expert advises immediately changing passwords, especially if they are weak or reused across multiple services. It is also essential to enable multi-factor authentication and complete Google’s security checkup.
ShinyHunters hackers are known for targeting large corporations.
James Knight said that those email addresses were really golden and that anyone who gained access to them could not only steal personal information but also blackmail people or attack companies they were associated with.
Google has confirmed the breach itself but has not disclosed the number of affected users. Company representatives declined to comment on whether a ransom demand was received.
Experts urge all Gmail account holders to remain extremely vigilant and never share passwords or verification codes, even if contacted by someone claiming to be from Google.
For several years, Russian intelligence agencies, through hackers, have obtained secret data from the US judicial system - particularly in cases involving espionage, money laundering, and the activities of foreign agents.
In addition, the French defense company Naval Group became the target of a cyberattack. Confidential information about submarines and frigates may have been stolen from it.
By the way, Bloomberg previously reported that Ukraine became an easy target for Russian hackers because the US reduced the country’s assistance in the field of cybersecurity.
