A New Scam Warning from Google: Fake Government Calls and QR-Code Phishing Are Getting More Convincing
Google's latest scam advisory warns about more sophisticated phishing, fake government messages, and high-pressure calls that try to steal money or login information. The safest response is still simple: pause, verify, and do not move money under pressure.
Google published a new fraud and scams advisory on June 8, warning that scammers are using more polished tactics to trick people into sharing passwords, bank details, or payment information.
One growing tactic is QR-code phishing, sometimes called "quishing." A scam message may ask you to scan a QR code to fix an account, pay a bill, or review an urgent notice. The code can lead to a fake login page that looks real enough to fool many people.
Google also warns about fake government or law-enforcement messages. A scammer may use official-looking names, video calls, calendar invitations, or threatening language to claim you are under investigation. The goal is to scare you into paying "legal fees," sharing banking information, or moving money quickly.
What to do: Do not trust a call, text, email, or video invitation just because it looks official. Real government agencies do not demand payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or payment apps. If a message tells you to act secretly or immediately, stop and call a trusted family member before doing anything.
If you use Android, pay attention to warnings in Google Messages and Phone by Google. Scammers often try to talk people into ignoring security alerts or turning protections off.