A Google Search Page Is Reflected In Sunglasses In This Photo Illustration
A Google search page is reflected in sunglasses in this photo illustration taken in Brussels May 30, 2014. Google has taken the first steps to meet a European ruling that citizens can have objectionable links removed from Internet search results, a ruling that pleased privacy campaigners but raised fears that the right can be abused to hide negative information. REUTERS

Around five million Gmail passwords were apparently compromised by hackers. The hack, still unconfirmed, was revealed after a Reddit user had provided information to indicate a huge compromise in Google security.

According to Russia Today, the database of stolen usernames and passwords was posted on the Bitcoin Security online forum. The text file consists of login information of 4.93 million Gmail users. The forum administration removed the passwords from the list and kept the usernames only. However, the forum user called tvskit, who was responsible for the revelation, claimed that 60 per cent of the passwords in the list were still valid. Google's spokesperson confirmed that several of the compromised passwords had been leaked from some other website than Google.

Here are a few things you can do to ensure the security of your Google account.

Don't Trust Random Websites Helping You

The compromised accounts belong to users from several parts of the world. There are users who speak in Russian, Spanish and English. IBTimes earlier advised Google users not to type their username and password on any random website which might claim to check if a specific account had been hacked. The method, popularly called a "honeypot," is widely used by hackers all over the world. Even if your account is not compromised at the moment, you may fall prey to hackers if you trust random websites.

Change Your Password

Changing your password is a simple way of ensuring your security. You do not have to ask other websites or any third party to help you eliminate a potential threat. You can do it yourself by changing your Google password. Make sure that you use a strong password by using letters, special characters, numeric characters and at least one capital letter. Avoid using passwords which can be easily guessed. Such weak passwords include your name, username or phone number.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Google allows its users to take advantage of its "two-factor authentication." You should enable it to make sure you get notified if someone tries to log in from a different IP address rather than the one you usually use. Several experts suggested that the earlier leak of nude images could have been prevented if Hollywood celebs like Jennifer Lawrence used Apple's two-way authentication.

Contact the writer: s.mukhopadhyay@ibtimes.com.au

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