Google gives users a week to recover hacked Gmail accounts

In the wake of increasing cyber threats, particularly aimed at Gmail accounts, Google has issued a warning to users regarding the urgency of password security. As of May 1, 2025, users who have their Gmail accounts compromised have a seven-day window to regain access, even if attackers change recovery details. This step is crucial given the rise of sophisticated AI-driven attacks that often employ social engineering tactics to deceive users into giving away their credentials. Security experts stress the importance of maintaining recovery phone numbers and emails for swift account recovery in such scenarios. Cybersecurity has become a pressing concern, with persistent reports indicating hackers are now employing advanced technologies to manipulate and compromise personal accounts. The ongoing research from Check Point Research highlights the alarming effectiveness of AI-powered threats. Modern attackers leverage these tools to heighten the odds of successful infiltration, further complicating recovery for locked-out users. It underscores a need for users to adapt to new security measures swiftly, such as employing passkeys instead of traditional passwords, to better protect against such vulnerabilities. Should users act within the seven-day recovery time frame, they are typically able to reclaim their accounts provided that they had previously set up recovery options. Google’s spokesperson Ross Richendrfer reiterated this point, emphasizing the value of proactive security measures that must be established before an attack occurs. He acknowledges the ongoing evolution of cyber threats, asserting that the company's automated account recovery protocol accommodates users during this pivotal week following unauthorized access. As the digital landscape changes rapidly, user education and awareness become vital for prevention. The public must understand not just the immediate need for password security but also the broader implications of using advanced authentication methods like passkeys to deter potential threats. This message is further amplified as traditional security measures appear inadequate against the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, encouraging the adoption of robust security practices across digital platforms.