Android already has several features that aim to protect users from various types of online scams. Google is now introducing a new pilot in the US, which could protect users from in-call scams.
Google launched new scam protections for financial apps in the US
Android users in the US are getting new scam protections for financial apps that will protect them from some sophisticated social engineering tactics. The new protections are aimed at scams where criminals trick users into sharing the screen of their phones while using bank apps.
Google said this type of scam is a popular way to manipulate victims into revealing banking information or making financial transfers. The new protection tool works when users are on the phone with a number that is not saved in their contacts and have screen sharing activated.
Have you or someone you know fallen victim to such scams?
Yes
0%
No, but I’ve received such calls
100%
No, but someone I know did
0%
No, I’ve never heard of such scams
0%
If the user opens a banking app while on the call, Android automatically shows a warning about the potential dangers. The warning is in a pop up that takes over most of the screen and features a large red button to end the call and stop the screen-sharing session. The warning includes an explanation that you may be falling victim to a scam by a caller who may be posing as someone else. There are recommendations not to follow the instructions of the caller or share personal or financial information.
Probably the most critical part of the warning is the 30-second pause period before you can continue. Google says that “helps break the ‘spell’ of the scammer's social engineering, disrupting the false sense of urgency and panic commonly used to manipulate you into a scam.”
Tried and tested in the UK
The warning pop up. | Image credit – Google
Google has already run a test of this safety feature in the UK earlier this year. The company said the test was successful and had helped thousands of users end calls that could’ve cost them dearly. The feature is now expanded to most major UK banks, and pilots are running with financial apps in Brazil and India.
In the US, Google is piloting the scam protection feature with several popular apps like Cash App and banks, including JPMorganChase. The new scam protection features work on Android 11 and newer.
Hopefully, that’s going global
Google is not exaggerating the prevalence of this type of scam, but the issue extends beyond the few countries where the company is running tests. I hope those pilots go well and Google expands this type of protection to users in more countries. That would make me feel much less worried about my older and less tech-savvy relatives.
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Ilia, a tech journalist at PhoneArena, has been covering the mobile industry since 2011, with experience at outlets like Forbes Bulgaria. Passionate about smartphones, tablets, and consumer tech, he blends deep industry knowledge with a personal fascination that began with his first Nokia and Sony Ericsson devices. Originally from Bulgaria and now based in Lima, Peru, Ilia balances his tech obsessions with walking his dog, training at the gym, and slowly mastering Spanish.
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