In a continued push to bolster user safety, Google is adding a series of powerful new features to its Messages app, aiming to tackle the growing problem of SMS scams. The company has made safety a central theme for 2024, as seen with the introduction of robust anti-theft measures in Android 15 and the biometrically secured Find My system. Now, Google is targeting the rampant rise in SMS scams, particularly those related to package delivery and job opportunities.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has even issued a warning about the alarming increase in such scams, which often involve misleading text messages with fake tracking links designed to extort money or trick users into revealing personal information.
To counter this threat, Google is leveraging on-device AI in the Messages app to identify suspicious text messages. This AI-powered system will proactively warn users about potentially scammy messages and automatically redirect them to the spam folder, offering a crucial layer of protection.
Beyond scam detection, Google is expanding its intelligent URL warning system, which scans messages for malicious links that can lead to malware infections or phishing attacks. Previously tested in select Asian countries like India, this feature will now be rolled out globally to all Messages users by the end of the year.
However, the company recognizes that scammers often use international numbers to evade detection, so Google is introducing a feature that automatically blocks messages from unknown international senders. These messages will be directed to the ‘Spam & blocked’ folder, significantly reducing the risk of users interacting with potential scams. This feature will initially launch in Singapore and then expand to other markets based on its reception.
Even more sophisticated scammers may try to impersonate legitimate businesses or contacts. To counter these threats, Google is developing a contact verification system that utilizes public keys for verification. This system will check the sender’s identity through a QR code or a registered phone number, providing an added layer of security. This feature is slated to be available for all Android phones running version 9 or higher.
Google’s multi-pronged approach to combating SMS scams through its Messages app demonstrates the company’s commitment to user safety. By combining AI-powered detection, intelligent URL warnings, and robust contact verification, Google aims to create a safer and more secure messaging experience for all users. These updates are a crucial step in the ongoing fight against cybercrime and will likely serve as a model for other tech companies seeking to protect their users from increasingly sophisticated scams.