Over one billion people use Google Messages every day to communicate with family, friends, and colleagues. Chances are, if you’ve been using the app, you’ve encountered a suspicious message at least once. In an effort to combat this, Google is rolling out enhanced security features to keep users safe from unwanted messages. The current system already filters over two billion potentially dangerous messages every month, but the new updates aim to provide even more protection.
Enhanced protection against modern scams
Google has announced an advanced scam detection system, focusing particularly on messages about job offers and deliveries—common tactics used by scammers. This system employs AI directly on users’ phones, allowing it to identify and automatically filter suspicious messages. The messages either get moved to a spam folder or come with an on-screen warning on your device.
The analysis happens locally on your phone, so there’s no need to worry about your conversations being sent to Google’s servers. This ensures that your privacy is maintained while still offering strong security.
Stricter contact verification
In another push for safety, Google will introduce a feature allowing users to verify the identity of message senders via QR code scanning. This additional layer of verification will help users feel confident about who is contacting them. However, this feature won’t be available until 2025 and will only work on devices running Android 9 or later.
Better control over international messages
Another handy feature is automatic hiding of messages from unknown international numbers. These will be instantly moved to the spam folder, helping users avoid scams and phishing attempts that often originate from foreign numbers.
Protection against sensitive content
One of the most significant updates is the new sensitive content alert system. This feature detects and automatically blurs images containing nudity before the user even sees them. Additionally, if someone attempts to send or forward such images, the system will display a warning about the potential risks involved.
This feature will be optional for adults and can be managed through Settings, but it will be automatically enabled for users under 18. These younger users will have the ability to turn it off if they choose. Like other features, the processing happens solely on the device, ensuring user privacy.
Safer links in your messages
Google Messages is also introducing smart warnings for links that are considered dangerous, especially if they come from unknown senders. If a user receives a message with a suspicious link, they will be warned, and the link will be blocked automatically to prevent any potential cyberattacks.
Currently, only users enrolled in Google’s beta program are able to try out these new protection features, but the broader rollout is expected soon.
Conclusion: A safer messaging experience for all
Google’s commitment to improving security for its users is clear with these updates. By using AI-driven solutions and focusing on local processing, they manage to offer advanced protection while maintaining user privacy. Whether it’s filtering scams, managing sensitive content, or identifying unknown contacts, these features provide a robust safety net for Android users.
Fact check
- Over one billion people use Google Messages daily.
- Google already filters two billion potentially harmful messages every month.
- New scam detection systems will use AI to identify suspicious messages locally on users’ devices.
- QR code verification for message senders will be available in 2025.
- The sensitive content alert system will be optional for adults but automatically enabled for users under 18.
Leave a Comment