Google is enhancing user security with new AI-powered scam detection features for Android devices. The Messages app now identifies potential scams in SMS conversations, alerting users to suspicious behavior. This feature is enabled by default for contacts not saved in the user’s phone. Additionally, an AI-driven scam detection for phone calls provides real-time alerts for fraudulent requests. Both features prioritize user privacy, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure. Currently, these tools are being rolled out in English across select regions.
AI-Powered Scam Detection for Text Messages
As cybercriminals become more adept at using artificial intelligence to ensnare unsuspecting victims via SMS and phone calls, Google is stepping up its game to safeguard users from these fraudulent schemes. The tech giant is rolling out two innovative AI-driven scam detection features designed specifically for Android devices, aiming to thwart increasingly sophisticated attacks that may initially appear harmless.
The first feature focuses on scam detection within messages. By enhancing the existing anti-spam capabilities in Google’s Messages app, this new protection seeks to identify a broader spectrum of threats. When activated, the built-in AI employs real-time analysis to assess the context of text conversations, detecting any signs of suspicious behavior.
Imagine receiving an SMS from an unknown sender that starts innocently enough. As the dialogue progresses, it may take an unexpected turn into risky territory. Once the AI identifies a questionable text, it promptly alerts you, indicating that it could be a scam. You then have the choice to either disregard the warning or take action by reporting and blocking the sender.
By continuously monitoring the conversation for warning signs, Google’s detection system aims to outperform traditional security measures that only address the initial message. This feature works seamlessly with SMS, MMS, and RCS messages, providing comprehensive protection.
Default Activation and Privacy Assurance
The scam detection feature in Google Messages comes enabled by default, although users can opt to disable it whenever they choose. This feature applies exclusively to conversations with individuals not saved in your contacts.
Google emphasizes that user privacy remains a priority. If you choose to report a suspicious interaction, only the details of the sender and the recent messages with that person will be shared with Google and your mobile carrier. Currently, this new functionality is being launched in English across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, with plans for expansion to other regions soon.
Next up is the AI-driven scam detection for phone calls. Initially launched in a public beta last November for select Pixel 9 users, this feature also harnesses AI to analyze conversations in real-time and provide alerts for potential scams. While still in beta, it is now being extended in English to all Pixel 9 users in the United States.
During the pilot phase, Google evaluated the effectiveness of scam detection on the Pixel 9 and Pixel 6 devices. The Pixel 9 utilized the advanced Gemini Nano AI, while the Pixel 6 operated with a smaller, locally running machine learning model. Ultimately, the Pixel 9 demonstrated superior performance compared to its predecessor.
So, how does this feature operate? If you receive a call from someone requesting payment via gift cards to complete a transaction, the AI will be on high alert. You will receive notifications through audio cues, haptic feedback, and on-screen alerts, warning you of a potential scam.
Google is committed to maintaining privacy with this feature as well. It will not activate during calls with recognized contacts, ensuring your conversations remain private. The audio from calls is processed on the device, and it is neither recorded nor sent to Google or any third parties. This feature is disabled by default and can be manually activated, with the option to disable it at any time, even during a call.