Google has recently rolled out a new feature for Gmail users – blue verified check marks for email addresses. This addition aims to provide an extra layer of protection against malicious and unwanted emails, while also increasing users’ confidence in the legitimacy of incoming messages. The new check mark icon replaces the verified brand logo for users who have enabled Google’s Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) feature.
While this verification process appears beneficial, it is not without its vulnerabilities. Hackers and spammers are known for their relentless pursuit of finding flaws and bypassing security measures. In this case, bypassing the blue check marks could become another tactic in the ongoing battle against business email compromise schemes that aim to propagate malicious code. By impersonating the verified brand logo, hackers can easily deceive legacy security layers, leading unsuspecting victims to fall for their schemes.
The ability for hackers to create fake accounts that mimic verified Google email addresses poses a significant threat. They can easily generate a fake verification badge using various tools. Once the fake account is created, hackers have the means to send phishing emails and other malicious messages that appear to originate from legitimate sources. This tactic often involves social engineering techniques to trick users into revealing their passwords.
One common method employed by hackers is to send an email that appears to be from a bank, government agency, or customer service representative. These emails may promise free gifts or discounts to entice the recipient. Typically, the email contains a link that directs users to a fake website designed to resemble the legitimate organization. When users enter their login credentials on the fake website, hackers gain access to their Gmail accounts.
Another technique involves the use of malware to steal login credentials. Hackers can send emails with attachments infected with malware. Once the attachment is opened, the malware is installed on the user’s computer. This malware can then capture the login credentials for Gmail and other online accounts, providing hackers with unauthorized access.
It is worth noting that hackers may also exploit the artificial Gmail verification process by sending phishing emails to potential victims. They can deceive users into believing that they are helping them earn their blue check marks, only to steal their login credentials instead.
Impersonating a domain and user account is not a new tactic employed by hackers. Email impersonation, particularly using recently established email-sending domains, continues to pose challenges for organizations trying to thwart email phishing attacks. Hackers create accounts and attach fake verified badges to deceive unsuspecting recipients.
To combat this new attack vector, organizations must invest in comprehensive security solutions. Implementing technologies such as DMARC, SPF, and DKIM for domain authentication can help prevent email spoofing. Additionally, sandboxing all attachments and leveraging threat intelligence can aid in detecting and stopping malware threats.
Utilizing multifactor authentication, including passwords, one-time passwords, biometrics, and challenge and reply tokens, can enhance security measures and protect sensitive data. These authentication strategies provide a universal framework across the company, standardizing and strengthening the authentication process.
It is crucial for organizations to view security as a platform rather than simply adding new control layers. By continuously investing in security platforms, businesses can stay ahead of hackers and their evolving tactics. Rapid deployment of security features through agile and DevOps methodologies enables security providers to respond swiftly to emerging threats without disrupting the everyday user experience.
While Google’s new verified blue check mark feature is a valuable addition, it should not be the sole measure relied upon for email security. It is essential to adopt a holistic approach that includes strong passwords, multifactor authentication, and ongoing end-user education and security awareness training. These measures will help ensure that verified emails genuinely originate from authentic sources, protecting users and organizations from falling victim to phishing and other cyberattacks.