Hardware and software are not the only things that are changing. The sophistication of cyberthreats such as phishing and frauds is also increasing. Google just unveiled a potent AI-powered scam detection tool for Android that provides real-time notifications while making calls and sending messages. It looks like the business is now extending this tool to third-party messaging applications.
Gemini powers Android scam detection, which starts as soon as a danger is detected. Before answering a call or even in the middle of a conversation, it notifies users. Despite its great effectiveness, the tool’s present functionality is restricted to native Android Phone and Messages apps.
This exposes consumers to attacks on WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram, among other channels where scams are equally prevalent. Thankfully, it appears like Google foresaw this gap early on.
Meta Apps will soon get Google’s Scam Detection
The most recent Android System Intelligence update for the Pixel 10 indicates that Google is attempting to expand scam detection beyond Messages to other messaging apps, according to Android Authority.
Evidence of this enlargement can be discovered in code strings included in the update and in the Security and Privacy section of the tool’s settings.
It is anticipated that the feature’s settings would include a new toggle called “Message frauds.” “Get alerts about possible frauds in notifications of chat messages from supported apps,” the description says, implying third-party platform support. Millions of users might be able to avoid scammers before they even open a questionable mail thanks to this.
<string name="notification_adjustment_justification">May contain harmful contents</string>
<string name="notification_scam_likely_text">Likely scam</string>
<string name="scam_warning_description">Scam Detection found suspicious activity in this message</string>
<string name="scam_warning_guidelines_header">Protect yourself against scams:</string>
<string name="scam_warning_header">Likely scam</string>
<string name="not_a_scam_button_text">Not a scam</string>
<string name="snackbar_text">Scam Detection paused for this chat</string>Subsequent research reveals that the program may indicate questionable information or behavior by scanning messages within apps. In addition to having the option to completely or per-app disable the feature, users will be able to verify whether a message is a hoax. Users now have more control, particularly if they use a certain chat service a lot.
Which Apps Are Going to include Google Scam Detection?
According to reports, this feature will work with a number of apps, including Verizon Messages, Instagram, Facebook Messenger, Signal, WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, Line, and Twitter (X). After the feature is formally launched, more apps will probably be included.
Although the release date for this feature is yet unknown, it is something to keep a close eye on. Tools like these are becoming indispensable as AI-powered scams and more sophisticated attack techniques proliferate.
Starting with the Pixel 10 and later variants, we anticipate the feature to make its debut on Pixel devices. It should ideally spread to Android smartphones other than Google’s own.
