Google has unveiled new features aimed at enhancing user safety by maintaining confidentiality. The tech giant introduced “Fraud detection” in the Google Phone app and real-time threat detection in Google Play to bolster security.
The AI-powered fraud detection feature in the Google Phone app helps users avoid falling victim to increasingly complex phone call scams. By analyzing conversation patterns, the system can identify potential deception cues such as urgent requests for money transfers due to alleged bank account issues. When fraud is suspected, the user is alerted with audio, vibration, and visual cues. Importantly, all processing is done on the device itself without any data being stored or transmitted to Google servers, giving users full control over the feature.
Currently available for Pixel 6 and newer models in the US, the fraud detection feature relies on the advanced Gemini Nano AI-Module present in the Pixel 9 series devices.
Another key addition is the real-time threat detection within Google Play Protect. By monitoring app behavior, including interactions with permissions and services, the system can pinpoint potentially malicious apps. Users receive immediate notifications if harmful activity is detected, particularly focusing on stalkerware that collects user data without consent.
All data processing is done locally via the Private Compute Core, ensuring user data remains private and secure. The threat detection feature is initially available on Pixel 6 devices and will expand to other Android devices gradually.
Google’s commitment to developing technologies that prioritize user safety and privacy is evident in these new advancements.