IF you receive a security alert from Google about suspicious activity on your account, you need to take five steps.
Google has advised users on what action to take when a scammer has taken over one or more devices.
The tech giant explains: “Google sends you security alerts to help prevent other people from using or abusing your account.
“Help keep your account secure by responding right away to any security alerts you get by phone or email.”
You’ll receive these alerts if a hacker has accessed your account from an unusual location or a new device.
An unusual number of emails being sent or trying to view stored passwords can also result in Google sending you a warning.
If the activity was you, simply click select “Yes” on the alert message.
However, if it wasn’t, you’ll need to take five steps.
First, Google advises: “On the security alert, review the sign-in details, including device type, time, and location.”
When you spot unfamiliar activity you need to click “No, secure account.”
Then, follow the steps on the screen to secure your account.
This will likely include a password change.
Next, open your Google Account, click “Security issues found” and then “Secure account.”
You should be wary of scam emails pretending to be an alert from Google.
The company will never ask you for financial information in a scam alert or take you to third-party websites.