Google issues warning to iPhone and Android owners over surprise payments – one click could empty your bank
GOOGLE has told users to look out for a dangerous attack that turns up in your payment apps, which could hand your money to criminals in a matter of seconds.
In an official Google memo, the company described how some victims find that surprise payments turn up in their apps.
But if all goes to plan for the cyber crooks, you'll end up broke and confused.
It's called a "Money Received" scam, and it's an extremely cunning way to part iPhone and Android users from their cash.
"If money is sent to you by someone who isn’t a close friend or family member, do not send the money back directly," Google warned.
Instead Google urges you to contact the payment service being used – for instance, Google Pay.
The scam works by placing money in your account, and then requesting it back.
Often the scammers will have transferred the cash using a method that can be recalled.
Alternatively, it's possible that it's a "laundering" method, whereby you send your own money to scammers – while the stolen funds sent to you are seized.
"Scammers may use stolen forms of payment to send money to unsuspecting people, and then request that an equal sum of money be sent back," Google explained.
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"If you receive money from a form of payment that was stolen by a scammer, that money could be removed from your account.
"Do not send the money back.
"If you send your own money back, the stolen funds you received can also be removed from your account.
";If that happens, you’ll end up with less money in your account than you had before you received the scam payment."
The payment may even appear to come from a trusted contact.
If that happens, speak to them using a safe method (like phone call) and transfer the money directly.
Be extremely suspicious when money unexpectedly turns up in your account.
Although it might seem like a cause for celebration, it could result in you being hoodwinked out of your savings.