Google Gmail users who have received fake emails like the one below, which claim that a deletion request to remove their accounts has been received or their accounts have been scheduled to be deleted, are asked not to follow the instructions in them, they should just delete them. This is because fake emails are phishing scams being sent by cybercriminals to trick their potential victims into clicking on the link in the emails, which go to fake Google websites that steal account credentials. Once the cybercriminals have gotten their potential victims' credentials, they will attempt to gain access their accounts and use them fraudulently.
Therefore, Gmail users who have already been tricked by the phishing scam are asked to change their passwords. And, for those whose accounts have already been hijacked, may click here for help to regain access to their accounts.
Sample of a "Google Gmail Account Deletion Request" Phishing Scam
From: Accounts Team <notify.inforeply.gm17p@gmail.com>
Date: October 28, 2017 at 8:04:43 PM CDT
Subject: Account Cancellation
Chrissie,
This is Jordan from Google Accounts. I’ve noticed your account has been scheduled for deletion by user request. You're getting this email to make sure it was you.
Gmail
Was this you?
We understand sometimes these occurrences result from new updates with 3rd party mobile software linked to your account. If you wish to stop your account from being cancelled, simply reply back to this email with your password at the time of the request.
After the current password has been confirmed and account ownership is verified, our automated systems will cancel the request. Once this is completed no further action is necessary.
Trust shield
Your security is important!
We’re always working to make our products better and more useful for you. If you have questions you’ll likely find the answer in the Help Center. You can find me in the Gmail Community forum answering questions.
We are sorry for the inconvenience. Thank you.
Jordan
Gmail Accounts Manager
Gmail users should never click on a link, especially in email messages, to sign into their accounts. If they have received similar email messages like the one above, they should always go directly to https://www.gmail.com and sign into their accounts from there. If there is something wrong with their accounts or they need to do something to their accounts, they will be notified after signing in.