How to Stop Phishing Emails in Gmail?

Phishing emails are a well-used type of cyber threat that can result in the loss of personal and financial information. Gmail has some internal security measures to prevent phishing, but customers need to add measures to secure themselves. Here is how to stop phishing emails on Gmail.

1. Enable Gmail’s Spam and Phishing Filters

Gmail automatically blocks and filters phishing, and you should verify that the following are turned on:

• Open Gmail and go to Gear icon > See all settings.

• Go to Filters and Blocked Addresses.

• Make sure Gmail’s spam filter is turned on and is not disabled while phishing warnings are disabled as well.

2. Report Phishing Emails

If you receive a suspicious message, report it to help Gmail improve its filters:

• Open the email, but do not click on any of the links.

• Press the 3 dot menu 3 dot menu on top right.

• Select Report Phishing.

• This action allows Google to identify and prevent future mail in the same vein.

This action helps Google recognize and block similar emails in the future. Cybersecurity awareness can also be beneficial.

3. Block Suspicious Senders

If you receive email phishing from the same sender many times:

• Open the email.

• Click the three-dot menu.

• Select Block [Sender].

Gmail will then start to auto-send subsequent messages from that sender.

4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your Google account:

• Go to your Google Account.

• Navigate to Security > 2-Step Verification.

• Follow the instructions to configure it.

With 2FA turned on, even if the hacker obtains your password, it won’t let it in without the additional authentication step.

5. Be Wary of Unsolicited Emails

Phishers frequently pretend their emails come from institutions such as banks, tech companies, or even Gmail Support. Look out for these signs:

• Use generic greetings like “Dear User” instead of your name.

• Requests to change your password or confirm your account are the type that are very urgent.

• Poor grammar and spelling mistakes.

• Suspicious links or attachments.

6. Use Google’s Security Checkup

Google has an in-built security checkup tool that will help find vulnerabilities that you may fix:

• Visit Google Security Checkup.

• Verify the latest account activity, connected apps, and security settings.

7. Keep Your Software Updated

Verify that your browser is modern, up-to-date, and operating system as well as antivirus is appropriately updated. Google constantly enhances Gmail security, but outdated software put you vulnerable.

8. Avoid Clicking Unknown Links

Even if an email appears legitimate, check for hyperlinks via hover before hitting. If the link looks fishy or doesn’t appear with the sender’s name, do not click it. Instead of the homepage, visit the website by entering the URL into the browser.

9. Use a Strong, Unique Password

A very weak password is the entry point for hackers into your account. Choose a long, random, and strong password with a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numerals, and symbols.

10. Consider Third-Party Email Security Tools

For persistent phishing emails, you can use additional security tools as:

• Programs that find phishing websites in browsers the browser extensions

• Email security software like Norton or McAfee.

• Google’s Advanced Protection Program for high-risk users.

Conclusion

Although Gmail has a robust phishing filter, it’s essential to be cautious and take extra precautions. By reporting phishing emails, blocking spam senders, and using security features, you can minimize phishing safely on your Gmail account.