June 2023 Newsletter

Since its 2004 arrival, Gmail has remained one of the most popular messaging systems. Recently, the computer giant has been experiencing some issues. Read on to learn the latest happenings:

The security features of Gmail have always been a selling point until recently when hackers found a vulnerability in the new Gmail checkmark system. The idea was launched just last month to indicate to users that a blue checkmark near the ‘sent from’ box meant the email was legitimate and not a scam. However, scammers found a way to trick Gmail into gaining blue checkmark status. Google is currently working on remedying the issue, and the error may still be occurring – so be alert!

The FBI has warned billions of Gmail and Outlook users of a possible infectious email message that can break computers related to the fake blue checkmark. If you receive an important email with a verified blue checkmark, call the company (not using the number in the email) to confirm legitimacy. Google has this concern listed as a P1 (top priority fix) and will hopefully be corrected soon.

Don’t get scammed:

• Check the FROM domain – the email should originate from the company domain name.  
• Don’t open suspicious files or links, which may deploy malware when opened.
• Ensure that all software is current, such as Windows Updates and other widely used programs.
• Keep your computers and other hardware protected with a firewall.
• Back up your data, test your backups, and keep the backups offline.
• Utilize multi-factor authentication.
• Make sure your security response plan is up to date.

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In other news, Gmail is freeing up space on their servers and will discontinue millions of inactive email accounts. The move will help strengthen the security of its users by eliminating abandoned accounts, which according to Gmail/Google, is an easy target for hackers. Besides sending emails, having a Gmail account is like a multi-unit access key allowing users to use tools such as YouTube, Google Docs, Google Drive, etc. Therefore, if you have a Gmail account that you would like to keep, be sure to follow the steps below, as inactive accounts of two years or more will be wiped away starting December 2023.

The easiest way to reactivate your Gmail is to log into your account and send someone an email. Or do one of the following:

• Connect to one of the applications with Gmail access (YouTube, etc.).
• Connect to Google within your account and search on Google.
• Connect to the PlayStore and download an application.
• Log into your inbox and access Google Drive.
• You have until December 2023 read the policy here.

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Founded in 1994, Creative Programs and Systems provides professional results for all computer needs. We design, create, and code an array of custom software programs and websites; implement internet marketing strategies for enhanced Search Engine Optimizations (SEO) results; repair and provide support for computers of both residential and professional nature; build custom systems and servers, and offer secure data backups. Need assistance or want to learn more? Call us at 810-224-5252 or info@cpsmi.com.