Google Gemini Alert: Indirect Prompt Injection Threat

Google has issued a red alert to its 1.8 billion Gmail users about a new cyberattack technique called Indirect Prompt Injections. This is a type of attack that specifically targets AI email tools like Google Gemini.

How Indirect Prompt Injections Work ​

Attackers embed hidden commands inside emails using tricks like:

• White text on a white background
• Zero-size fonts
• Invisible instructions

When a user clicks “Summarize this email” in Google Gemini, the AI doesn’t just read the email - it executes the hidden commands.

This makes the attack invisible to humans, meaning Gemini itself gets tricked into acting on malicious instructions.

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Potential Risks ​

Indirect Prompt Injection attacks can create highly convincing fake alerts:

• Fake security warnings that look official
• Password reset prompts that aren’t real
• Subtle nudges to hand over sensitive data

The scary part? There are no links or attachments - the attack is fully hidden in the text itself.

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How to Protect Yourself ​

To stay safe from AI-targeted email attacks:

• Don’t blindly trust AI email summaries
• Verify sensitive messages manually
• Delete suspicious emails immediately

Why It Matters​

This attack shows that AI tools, while powerful, can be manipulated in subtle ways. Users must remain vigilant and treat AI-generated summaries like any automated system - always verify critical information before acting.

References & Further Reading ​

• Tom's Hardware Report
• TechRadar Article
• Wired Coverage

Pro Tip: Even AI-powered assistants can be tricked. Always combine human verification with AI summaries to stay protected.