Adwords Account Hacked

Discussion in 'Google AdWords' started by Freddy81, Nov 28, 2008.

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  1. #1
    Just another thread about hacked Adwords account. I've got hit on Nov, 16, when I noticed a crazy campaign that have costed me about $6400 in a single day.

    So I wrote Google and they responded very fast, offering me tow options: to credit the invalid charges to my account or to make a write-off (do not charge my CC at all). I've chosen the 2nd option.

    Just imagine how I was surprised today when I logged into my online banking and saw a $6400 charge from Google! This is just outrageous, I've shot an email to G immediately. While exploring this and other forums, I haven't seen anyone refunded for this invalid charges. This is very bad sign, considering the fact you'll have big problems issuing a chargeback for such a significant amount of cash (as you know, banks easily do chargebacks for small sums below $1K, but refuse to do this with the larger amounts).

    Tip for all advertisers: The only way to protect yourself from this loss is to check your account at least once a day, including old and forgotten accounts. If you notice an illegal activity, CHANGE YOUR CREDIT CARD INFO TO SOMETHING NON-EXISTENT IMMEDIATELY to avoid charges before G makes a write-off.

    Take care. If anyone is in the same boat with me, please share your experience.

    - Fred
     
    Freddy81, Nov 28, 2008 IP
  2. CustardMite

    CustardMite Peon

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    #2
    Google credited my client's account immediately when I raised it with them. Possibly it takes some time to make a change to their automatic billing process.

    I would recommend asking them to credit the amount back into your account - it will happen immediately then...
     
    CustardMite, Nov 28, 2008 IP
  3. SoCalDude

    SoCalDude Peon

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    #3
    Hey I hope it works out for you.
     
    SoCalDude, Nov 28, 2008 IP
  4. pipes

    pipes Prominent Member

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    #4
    Sorry to hear of this happening to you, but pleased your getting it sorted.

    Guys what are your thoughts on how easily this is happening?

    Whats your thoughts on how your account/s got hijacked, a possible error on your behalf or not sure?
     
    pipes, Nov 28, 2008 IP
  5. Freddy81

    Freddy81 Well-Known Member

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    #5
    Both accounts hacked had weak passwords, that's all I can assume as a reason.
     
    Freddy81, Nov 28, 2008 IP
  6. pipes

    pipes Prominent Member

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    #6
    Need to change mine i think.
     
    pipes, Nov 28, 2008 IP
  7. hidemyass.biz

    hidemyass.biz Peon

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    #7
    This sounds crazy,6400 $ lost,you should find owner of website which hacker was promoting and kick his ass.
     
    hidemyass.biz, Nov 29, 2008 IP
  8. MarcelB

    MarcelB Member

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    #8
    Sorry to hear of this happening to you
     
    MarcelB, Nov 30, 2008 IP
  9. Freddy81

    Freddy81 Well-Known Member

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    #9
    Google replied me with excuses and told that they will refund the money within 30 days.
    As for the site... the ad was look like:

    S
    S
    S
    www.s.com

    I don't know what was the point to send traffic to non-existent domain.
     
    Freddy81, Nov 30, 2008 IP