Gmail Scam Alert: Clicking ‘Unsubscribe’ Could Lead To Private Data Leak

Deceptive ‘unsubscribe’ links in emails are reportedly on the rise, causing phishing attacks and information theft on Gmail and other mailing platforms. According to cybersecurity firm DNSFilter, these links often redirect you towards phishing sites that could compromise the device and your personal data. One such scam is adding tracking code to unsubscribe buttons in emails. Adding ‘tracking codes’ to unsubscribe buttons or redirecting you to the ‘hazardous corners of the Internet’ are some of the phishing tactics being used by cybercriminals these days.

According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, tracking codes on ‘unsubscribe’ buttons allow cybercriminals to know that the account is active enabling them to then sell these email IDs in black market forums at premium prices. TK Keanini, Chief Technology Officer at cybersecurity firm DNSFilter also says that some ‘unsubscribe buttons’ redirect you away from the protected environment of Gmail into potentially hazardous corners of the Internet. The firm claims that roughly one out of every 644 unsubscribe links has the potential to direct users to a harmful site.

To avoid falling for these scams, there are some easy tips and tricks that users can follow:

Use in-app ‘unsubscribe’ feature provided by Gmail or Outlook. This lets you opt-out without ever leaving the inbox.

Mark unfamiliar or suspicious emails as spam. Do not click any links in such emails.

Regularly update your email app.

Download antivirus software on your device for extra protection.

Published on: Wednesday, June 18, 2025, 03:51 PM IST