Gmail issues warning to millions of Netflix users over subscription email: 'Delete it now'

Google’s Gmail service has just issued an alert to its users who also hold Netflix accounts. A new sophisticated scam poses as the streaming platform’s customer service and asks to update payment information, threatening that the access to popular content would be denied otherwise.

With billions of users online, the tech giant tries to stay on top of its game when it comes to digital crime. It has recently warned its users about a series of phishing emails attempting to steal personal data via a dangerous YouTube link that comes from an email address identical to the one used by the video-sharing platform. Although payment details were not required, it still carried security risks for the users.

Meanwhile, Netflix reminds you that it will never ask you to share your personal information, including credit or debit card numbers, bank account details or passwords, in a text or email.

A new scam asks Gmail users to update their Netflix payment info

Gmail issues warning to millions of Netflix users over fake subscription email.

Netflix users should remain vigilant when checking their inbox as thieves are currently attempting to lure unsuspecting customers into handing over highly personal information.

A new scam landing in the inbox of millions of streaming platform users suggests that their payment information on file is not valid, with the email subject line being ‘Update required – Netflix account on hold'.

The fake message threatens that access to popular movies will be denied unless the user updates their account details within 48 hours.

The phishing email also contains the following:

We were unable to validate your billing information for the next billing cycle of your subscription therefore we'll suspend your membership if we do not receive a response from you within 48 hours.

This alert is followed by the invitation to ‘RETRY PAYMENT to update your details and continue to enjoy all the best TV shows & movies without interruption’ and a link, which, if clicked, could leave your details in the hands of hackers.

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Gmail and Netflix advise how to stay safe

Gmailhas placed an urgent warning on the message and is telling users to be wary before opening and clicking on any links.

If you receive that ‘Update required – Netflix account on hold’ message and it doesn’t get filtered by your spam blocker, the tech giant advises you to delete it without delay. Avoid clicking on any links.

Netflix reminds you that it will never ask you to share your personal information, including credit or debit card numbers, bank account details or passwords, in a text or email.

The company will never ask for payment through a 3rd party vendor or website either.

If the email links to a URL that you don't recognize, don't tap or click it. If you think you may have already tapped a link and entered personal details, Netflix advises you to change your password and contact your bank immediately.

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Sources used:

- Mirror: 'New Gmail alert issued to everyone with a Netflix account, delete this email immediately'