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Google Asks 2 Billion Gmail Users to Update Passwords Now in Security Push

Prime Highlights

  • Gmail users were all asked by Google to update their passwords and embrace safer login practices.
  • The firm encourages passkeys instead of password-only logins as a result of increased security risks.

Key Facts

  • Google found a flaw that leaked recovery information, which was subsequently fixed.
  • The company is selling passkeys for faster, more secure logins between devices.
  • Over 2 billion users are being notified due to the large-scale exposure to phishing and credential exposure.

Key Background

In a large cybersecurity alert, Google has urged its huge user base—more than 2 billion Gmail account owners—to review and secure their account in one go. The prompt, which is instant, comes after a flaw was revealed that might have published some users’ recovery contact information. Even though the problem was fixed, the bug illustrates the loopholes in the application of traditional passwords.

Google noticed that passwords are no longer enough to secure user accounts. Weak, reused, or compromised passwords cause most breaches. To stem this, the technology giant is nudging people to switch to passkeys—a passwordless sign-in method that is based on device-based authentication. Passkeys employ cryptographic keys safely stored on the user’s device and normally request a fingerprint or facial recognition or a secure PIN. Since these keys are never exchanged with websites or kept in vulnerable places, they cannot be phished and stolen.

Apart from adopting passkeys, Google also advises people to turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) as much as possible, particularly through means other than SMS, which can be intercepted and taken over by SIM-swapping. Google instead suggests the use of device prompts or authenticator apps such as Google Authenticator for extra security.

It is all part of a broader industry trend. Other tech giants such as Apple and Microsoft are also abandoning password-based authentication systems. Google will default to passkeys on all its services sometime later this year, 2025. The firm has also joined global campaigns such as “World Passwordless Day” to promote digital identity security awareness.

For users, the process is straightforward: look at your Google account security settings, delete outdated recoveries, turn on stronger 2FA, and turn on passkeys. These steps will greatly lower the threat of unauthorized access, particularly in today’s age of shifting cyberattacks and widespread AI-infused phishing.

By adopting these features, Gmail users can better secure their online presence and secure their personal data within a more toxic online world.