The smartphone nestled in your pocket is more than just a communication device; it is a vault for your favorite applications, personal accounts, and sensitive information. Recognizing the need for robust security measures, Google has rolled out an array of tools designed to shield Android users from the ever-evolving threats posed by scammers and malware. A recent blog post from the tech giant highlights these protective features, which are either currently available or on the horizon.
1. Protection against scam calls
One of the primary enhancements is the protection against scam phone calls. Scammers often attempt to manipulate users into altering security settings or granting permissions to malicious applications. To counteract this, Google will provide warnings about such attempts and block certain actions. The new in-call protections focus on three critical areas:
- Disabling Google Play Protect, which continuously scans for harmful apps and should always remain active.
- Sideloading apps from unverified sources, which can pose significant security risks.
- Granting accessibility permissions that could allow malicious apps to access sensitive data.
Moreover, if you share your screen during a call, Android will remind you to disable screen sharing afterward to safeguard your information. This feature will be available on devices running Android 6 or higher.
2. In-call protections for banking apps
In an effort to combat impersonation scams, Google is piloting new in-call protections specifically for banking applications, starting in the UK. When using a banking app while sharing your screen with an unknown caller, your device will alert you to potential risks and offer a quick option to terminate the call and stop screen sharing. This feature will be automatically enabled for participating banks on devices running Android 11 or higher.
3. Improved scam detection in Google Messages
Google Messages is also receiving an upgrade with enhanced scam detection capabilities. This feature aims to identify text conversations that may initially appear benign but could turn malicious. Currently focused on job and package delivery scams, the detection system is expanding to include:
- Toll road and billing fee scams
- Cryptocurrency scams
- Financial impersonation scams
- Gift card and prize scams
- Technical support scams
4. Better encryption for text messages via Key Verifier
To further protect users from impersonation, Google is introducing the Key Verifier tool. This feature allows users to verify the identity of their contacts through public encryption keys. By comparing keys via a QR code or number, users can ensure their conversation remains private and secure. If the keys do not match, it may indicate that a scammer has hijacked the contact’s phone number.
5. Stronger mobile phone theft protection
With mobile theft on the rise, Google is enhancing its theft protection measures. The Identity Check tool, previously available on select devices, will now expand to more devices running Android 16. Additionally, protections against unauthorized factory resets will be reinforced, requiring owner verification. One-time passwords will also be hidden on the lock screen unless the device is unlocked, adding another layer of security.
6. Advanced protection for mobile devices
For those facing targeted attacks, Google offers an Advanced Protection Program that cryptographically verifies and authenticates all login operations. This feature will be accessible on devices running Android 16, providing an extra layer of security for users who need it most.
7. Improvements to Google Play Protect
Google Play Protect is undergoing significant enhancements, utilizing a new set of on-device rules to identify malware patterns. Users will receive warnings about potentially malicious apps before installation. Additionally, live threat detection will alert users to suspicious behavior from apps attempting to conceal their presence.
8. Enhancing overall Android security
Beyond these specific features, Google remains committed to continuously improving Android security. Each new version of Android, along with updates to Google Play services, aims to bolster defenses against emerging cyber threats, ensuring users are well-protected in an increasingly digital world.
