Google rolls out scam and theft protection features for Android

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Google has announced a major update to Android’s privacy and security features, aiming to better protect users from scams, hackers, and phone theft. 

These changes, coming with Android 16 and other recent versions, were shared during the Android Show ahead of the Google I/O event.

Scammers often try to trick people during phone calls by asking them to tap links or install shady apps. 

To combat this, Google will now block certain risky actions, like installing apps from unverified sources or giving apps special permissions, when you’re on a call with someone not in your contacts. 

Android will also keep Google Play Protect (which scans for harmful apps) active during such calls.

If you’re sharing your screen and open a banking app, Android will display a warning, especially useful if you’re being scammed. This is being tested with some UK banks.

Android will also remind users to stop screen sharing after calls.

Google Messages now uses built-in AI to scan conversations for scam signs. It can spot scams involving crypto, gift cards, tolls, fake tech support, and more.

This detection is done privately on your device.

Google Contacts is getting a new feature to help you confirm you’re messaging the right person. You can scan a QR code or match numbers with your contact.

If someone hijacks a number (like through a SIM swap), it will show the contact as “unverified.”

Previously, only on Pixel and Samsung phones, Identity Check (which uses fingerprint or face unlock to change key settings) is now expanding to more Android devices. This helps stop thieves from changing security settings if they steal your phone.

Besides this, Google will soon block stolen phones from being reset without the correct PIN or Google account, making them much harder to resell or reuse.

Moreover, Google is improving its app scanner (Play Protect) to catch apps that hide their icons or change behavior. A new “Find My Hub” will also help users locate lost items and people.

Excited about Android 16? What features are you looking forward to the most? Tell us below in the comments, or via our Twitter or Facebook.