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Is Your Email Safe? The Negative Impact of Google Gemini’s Hidden Threat
Google Workspace helps many companies work faster. But a new problem has come up with Gemini, the tool that summarizes emails. Security experts found that hackers can use a trick to hide bad commands inside emails. They do not need links or files to do this.
How the Flaw Works
- Hackers put special code (HTML and CSS) in an email.
- Gemini reads this code when it makes a summary, not the regular text.
- Hackers can hide messages using tricks like:
- White text on a white background (so you can’t see it)
- Very tiny letters (so small, you miss them)
- Gemini might then show a fake warning or message in the summary, like:
- “Call this number for support” (but it’s fake)
- “Visit this site to fix your account” (but it’s a scam)
- The email itself looks empty or safe. People do not notice anything strange.
Why This Is a Big Problem
- No links or files are needed, so normal filters may not catch it.
- The attack works because Gemini “sees” the hidden code, not just what you see.
- People trust summaries and may act on fake advice.
- This trick could work in other Google tools, like Docs, Slides, and Drive.
What Could Happen?
- Someone might call a fake support number and give away private info.
- A user might visit a scam website and enter passwords.
- Hackers could use this trick to get into company systems.
- The risk is higher because the emails look normal.
What Google Is Doing
- Google knows about the problem.
- The company is working to make Gemini safer.
- They use special tests called “red-teaming” to find and stop these tricks.
- Google is updating its tools to block these kinds of attacks.
What You Can Do Now
- Be careful with email summaries. Do not trust them blindly.
- Train your team. Teach everyone to watch out for odd messages, even in summaries.
- Check emails closely. If a summary gives a warning or asks you to call a number, check the real email content.
- Report strange emails. Tell your IT team if you see something odd.
- Stay updated. Watch for news from Google about new fixes.
Quick Safety Tips
- Never call numbers or click links from summaries alone.
- Always check the full email before acting.
- Keep your software updated.
This flaw shows that even smart tools can be tricked. By staying careful and teaching your team, you can help keep your company safe. Always double-check before you act on email summaries. Trust, but verify—especially with new technology.