In an era where phone scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, Google is taking proactive measures to safeguard Android users. The tech giant is developing a new security feature for Android 16 aimed at blocking changes to sensitive settings during phone calls. This initiative is particularly relevant as scammers often exploit these settings to gain unauthorized access to personal data or install malicious software.
Enhancing Security During Calls
Scammers frequently employ psychological tactics to manipulate victims into divulging personal information or transferring money. One common strategy involves persuading individuals to enable sideloading—allowing apps to install other applications from unofficial sources. Many users may not be familiar with the process of sideloading, which is why scammers often remain on the line to guide them through it.
The forthcoming feature in Android 16 will automatically detect active phone calls and prevent users from enabling sideloading permissions. According to findings from the Android 16 Beta 2, the system will display a warning message when a user attempts to make such changes during a call. This message will inform users that allowing apps to install other applications is prohibited while on a call, emphasizing that scammers typically request this action.
- Key Features of the New Security Update:
- Blocks sideloading permission changes during phone calls.
- Displays warnings about potential scams when attempting to enable sensitive settings.
- Prevents granting accessibility access during calls, which could allow malicious apps to control devices.
While the sideloading permission is disabled by default for security reasons, users can enable it through the settings menu. However, those with Advanced Protection Mode activated cannot toggle this permission, reflecting the heightened security risks associated with sideloading.
Even with these protective measures, scammers may still attempt to circumvent the system by instructing victims to hang up, sideload the app, and then call back. This added step could create hesitation, potentially raising suspicion in the victim’s mind. The warning dialog displayed during these attempts serves as a crucial deterrent, encouraging users to reconsider the legitimacy of the caller.
Moreover, Android 16 will also restrict the enabling of certain sensitive permissions, such as accessibility access, during active phone calls. Granting accessibility access can allow an app to read the screen and perform actions on behalf of the user, which poses significant risks if exploited by malicious software.
These new security features are not yet active in the current Android 16 Beta 2 but are anticipated to be included in the public release later this year. They build upon the Enhanced Confirmation Mode introduced in Android 15, which already made it more challenging for sideloaded apps to access sensitive permissions.
As Google continues to innovate in the realm of mobile security, these developments represent a significant step toward protecting users from the ever-evolving landscape of phone scams.
