by Key Takeaways
- AI-based real-time scam call detection is now available on Android.
- Malware hiding in the background can also be detected by Google Play Protect.
- Google phones, such as the Pixel 6 through Pixel 9, are the first to offer the functionality.
On Android, Google is now providing widespread access to real-time scam call notifications. It can even alert you to malware that has long been undetected.
A public beta of Android’s long-awaited Scam Detection feature is now accessible on Google phones, including the Pixel 6 and Pixel 9. The most recent gadgets detect possibly fraudulent calls using an on-device Gemini Nano model. Other Android phones will soon be supported.
The technique uses artificial intelligence (AI) to identify phone patterns that are commonly linked to scams. You’ll receive visual, auditory, and even vibrating notifications telling you to cancel the call if someone claims to be from your bank and demands that you give money immediately.
On the other hand, Google Play Protect now offers live threat detection for the Pixel 6 and more recent first-party Android smartphones. It mostly searches for stalkerware, which steals personal information by hiding in the background for days or weeks at a time. You’ll receive a notification that enables you to take action if Protect detects questionable activity related to app permissions and interactions.
Google says it would “explore” extending the feature to other malware kinds, even though Protect’s initial live threat detection is focused on these stalker apps. In the upcoming months, third-party phone support is due.
The detection of fraudulent calls may be crucial. Both iPhones and Android phones can detect whether an incoming call is likely fraudulent, but they are typically unable to assist in the middle of a discussion. This could be helpful if you answer calls out of habit.
Seniors are not often the primary victims, despite popular belief. Even though a larger proportion of elderly adults were more likely to fall victim to scam calls, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) discovered in 2021 that those under the age of 59 were 34% more likely to disclose fraud losses than those 60 and older. By teaching people to recognize common fraudster techniques, Android’s improved protections may benefit younger users who are unfamiliar with scammers.
