As many of our members may have seen in the news, Google has confirmed that the company had a data breach. Google confirmed that hackers are gaining access to Gmail accounts and that compromised passwords are behind a significant number of “successful intrusions.” 2.5 billion Gmail users are now at risk.

The original notice and news about Google's Salesforce database stated that it did not affect Google Cloud or Gmail data; however, this may not be the case.

If you have a Gmail account, it is highly recommended that you change your password.

While you are managing your Google account settings to update your password, take note of a few security features available to you, including two-factor authentication (2FA), and the option to add a passkey. You can also tie in the Google Authenticator app as an additional layer of security.

Be alert of scammers pretending to be Google support staff via emails and calls.

The attacks lead to fake sign-in pages that steal your password and sometimes add an additional step to either trick you into sharing a 2FA code or to bypass the need for that 2FA code completely.

Beware, if any sign-in window asks for a password on a device that requires a passkey, that’s a red flag. And never sign-in via a link, even if that link seems to come from Google.

If you fear an account security issue, go to your Google account and click on Security—Review Security Activity.

Separately, TCT Members are encouraged to add a verbal password to their TCT accounts as an added layer of security.

Adding a verbal password helps TCT staff verify your identity over the phone. To add a verbal password, log in to your TCT Online/Mobile Banking and send us a secure message or call TCT during business hours at 800-721-8288.

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