Tech

Is This Google Email a Scam? How to Tell

Google impersonation scams include fake security alerts about your Google account, Gmail phishing, Google Business profile scams, and fake Google ad support calls.

Reviewed by the Cautellus team · Last updated May 30, 2026

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Common Google Scam Types

Google account security alerts

Gmail phishing emails

Google Business listing scams

Google Ads support scams

Google Prize winner scams

Example Scam Messages

These are examples of fake messages impersonating Google. Never click links in unsolicited messages.

“Google: Someone signed into your account from a new device. If this was not you: google-security-verify.com”

“Google Alert: Your Google Business listing will be removed unless verified immediately.”

Red Flags to Watch For

Security alerts from non-google.com domains
Requests to verify your account via non-Google links
Calls from Google Business Support asking for payment
Emails claiming you won a Google prize

Legitimate Google Contact Info

Visit support.google.com or myaccount.google.com for security settings. Google does not call businesses to sell Google Ads services.

Where to Report a Google Scam

If you received or fell for a fake Google message, report it to the authorities below. Reporting helps investigators track these campaigns.

FTC — reportfraud.ftc.govReport fraud and scams to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission.
FBI IC3 — ic3.govFile a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Cautellus reporting guide →Step-by-step help on who to contact and how to recover.