Google Security Alert From Iran? Authorities Warn of Phone Scam

A phone scam impersonating Google's security service and warning of suspicious activity originating in Iran has raised concerns among users in Israel. The Israel National Cyber Directorate has received numerous reports of automated calls in English, in which recipients are warned about an alleged change to their Google account.

The message, which sounds like an official security alert from the tech giant, is actually part of a scam designed to exploit fears of hostile cyber activity originating in Iran. The callers attempt to create a sense of urgency, encouraging recipients to act before checking whether the warning is genuine.

What Does the Fake Google Security Alert Say?

The automated recording states:

“Security notification from Google. We have detected a change to the phone number on your Google account. The activity appears to originate from Tehran, Iran. If you did not authorize this change, please press 1. If this change is familiar to you, no further action is required.”

However, the National Cyber Directorate has clarified that receiving such a call does not mean a person's Google account has actually been compromised. According to the agency, the reference to Tehran is part of a scare tactic intended to pressure recipients into responding impulsively.

How to Protect Yourself From the Scam

Following the large number of reports, the National Cyber Directorate issued guidelines to help the public avoid falling victim to the scam.

The first recommendation is to hang up immediately without pressing any numbers or engaging with the caller.

Users are also urged never to share passwords or verification codes received by text message, and not to approve any account changes or security requests they did not initiate themselves.

Anyone concerned that their Google account may have been compromised should check it independently by opening the official Google app or visiting Google's website directly and reviewing their account's security settings. The Directorate emphasizes that users should not follow links, call phone numbers, or act on instructions provided during a suspicious call.

The National Cyber Directorate is also encouraging anyone who receives one of these calls, or who fears they may have already shared sensitive information, to contact its 119 hotline to report the incident and receive guidance.