Salesforce Hackers Exploit Google Tools

Introduction

In an alarming new cybersecurity development, hackers are targeting Salesforce accounts using legitimate Google tools to bypass detection and execute data extortion attacks. The attacks are highly sophisticated, leveraging Google Workspace functionalities to validate victim identities and manipulate email workflows. This latest wave highlights the increasing weaponization of trusted platforms in targeted cybercrime campaigns.

How the Attack Works

The group behind these incidents, believed to be financially motivated cybercriminals, uses a well-coordinated phishing operation that exploits Google services as part of their delivery and validation process. This strategy increases the credibility of the phishing attempt and drastically reduces the likelihood of being flagged as malicious.

Phishing with Gmail and Google Forms

The attackers send phishing emails through compromised or spoofed Gmail accounts, often with embedded Google Forms or Google Sites links. These links route victims to fake login pages designed to harvest Salesforce credentials and session tokens.

Bypassing 2FA and Security Controls

Once initial access is achieved, the hackers can bypass two-factor authentication (2FA) by abusing session tokens, allowing them to maintain persistent access without needing the victim’s physical device. They also leverage Google’s native functionality to make the emails appear authenticated, evading secure email gateways.

Key Takeaways

• Salesforce accounts are being targeted using advanced phishing techniques.
• Google Workspace tools such as Gmail, Google Forms, and Google Sites are being exploited.
• Session token hijacking enables attackers to bypass multi-factor authentication.
• Threat actors are focused on data extortion rather than traditional ransomware.

The Rise of Data Extortion Without Encryption

Unlike traditional ransomware attacks that encrypt files, this campaign focuses on stealing sensitive data and threatening public exposure or resale. This tactic proves harder to stop, faster to execute, and often offers a quicker payday for criminals.

Monetization Through Coercion

By exfiltrating customer or company data from Salesforce dashboards, attackers often contact victims with a deadline to pay up or risk reputational damage. These types of extortion schemes not only impact businesses financially but can also severely damage their trustworthiness.

Protecting Against These Attacks

Organizations using Salesforce and Google Workspace must take immediate action to strengthen their security posture.

Recommended Security Best Practices

• Deploy Conditional Access Policies: Limit access to Salesforce and Google tools based on geolocation or device health.
• Use Phishing-resistant MFA: Implement FIDO2-based authentication to prevent token theft exploits.
• Monitor OAuth and 3rd-party App Access: Review and restrict external integrations with Salesforce.
• Educate Employees: Train teams to recognize phishing emails—even those coming from trusted platforms like Google.

Final Thoughts

This campaign serves as a sobering reminder that even trusted, legitimate platforms like Google can be weaponized to conduct highly targeted cyberattacks. Organizations must move beyond traditional security perimeters and adopt a defense-in-depth approach to safeguard platforms like Salesforce. With data extortion now at the front lines of cyber threats, proactive monitoring and user education are no longer optional—they’re essential.