Latest news with #ScamDetection
Android Authority
4 days ago
- Android Authority
Pixel setup could soon include a key step to keep scammers off your phone calls (APK teardown)
C. Scott Brown / Android Authority TL;DR Google seems to be planning to integrate Scam Detection and Call Screen features into the Pixel device setup process. Currently, these protective features need to be manually enabled by users, so there's a fair chance many people don't know these features exist on their phones in the first place. This change could thus increase user adoption of these crucial security features. Google announced Scam Detection features for Pixel devices through the Google Phone app in November 2024. This feature alerts the user in real-time about a possible scam happening to them during a call if it detects common patterns associated with scams. Similarly, Pixel's Call Screen & Spam Protection is an absolute time-saver, allowing Google Assistant/Gemini to screen your calls, answer them with AI-powered replies, and even decline spam calls automatically. While the features are great, users need to know they exist and enable them manually to take advantage of them. Much like it intends to do with the Find Hub network, Google could potentially surface Scam Detection, Call Screen & Spam Protection features at device setup, which would get many more people to activate the features and start using them. Authority Insights story on Android Authority. Discover You're reading anstory on Android Authority. Discover Authority Insights for more exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage you won't find anywhere else. An APK teardown helps predict features that may arrive on a service in the future based on work-in-progress code. However, it is possible that such predicted features may not make it to a public release. The Google Phone app v181.0 beta includes strings and other code that suggest Google could start offering Scam Detection, Call Screen & Spam Protection features as an option during Pixel device setup. Code Copy Text Call Screen & Spam Protection Automatically screens calls from suspicious numbers & declines spam Scam Detection Get real-time alerts for potential scams when talking to unknown callers While the strings above don't directly mention the setup process, we can find the common 'joyball' codename in the string parameter. For reference, the 'dobby' codename is likely referring to the Call screen and Spam Protection features, while the 'sharpie' codename is likely referring to the Scam Detection feature. 'Joyball' is most likely the codename for the setup initialization screen, as the Pixel Setup Wizard contains plenty of references to it. AssembleDebug / Android Authority We managed to activate the setup screen ahead of its release to give you a look: While the setup screen only mentions Scam Detection, the second screenshot does mention Call Screen. Further, you can see that an unhighlighted 'No thanks' button is present, which indicates that the feature is likely optional, and attentive users can skip it if they want to. Call Screen & Spam Protection and Scam Detection are Pixel-exclusive Google Phone app features. Since the feature is Pixel-exclusive, it's safe to presume that the setup screens will be visible on Pixel devices and not all Android devices. These features are separate from the Google Phone app's Caller ID & Spam feature, which is available to all Android users if they have the app installed as their default dialer. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Fox News
18-06-2025
- Fox News
Android security upgrades outsmart scams and protect your privacy
With the increasing sophistication of digital threats, safeguarding your phone and personal data has never been more crucial. Android is responding with a suite of new security features designed to protect you from scams, fraud, and device theft. These enhancements are primarily rolling out to devices running Android 16. Some protections, such as enhanced theft protection and AI-powered scam detection, are also becoming available on select devices running Android 10 and later via Google Play Services updates. The most advanced features, including Identity Check and device-level Advanced Protection, are initially launching on Google Pixel and Samsung devices with One UI 7, with plans to expand to other manufacturers as they update to Android 16. Let's take a look at how these innovations are making Android security smarter and more comprehensive. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join. Phone scammers are becoming increasingly creative, often attempting to trick people into changing device security settings or granting risky permissions during calls. Android's new in-call protections add a layer of defense by blocking certain actions during calls with non-contacts. For example, you won't be able to disable Google Play Protect, sideload an app for the first time, or grant accessibility permissions while on a call with someone not in your contacts. If you're screen-sharing during a call, Android will prompt you to stop sharing when the call ends. Android's AI-powered Scam Detection in Google Messages and Phone by Google is now even more intelligent. It can identify suspicious conversation patterns in real-time and warn you before you fall victim to a scam. This protection covers a wide range of scams, including toll road and billing fee scams, cryptocurrency scams, financial impersonation scams, gift card and prize scams, tech support scams, and more. All message analysis happens on your device, so your conversations stay private. Availability can vary depending on your device, region, and carrier. If you don't see these features yet, make sure your app is updated and keep an eye out as Google continues to expand support to more users worldwide. To help protect you from scammers who try to impersonate someone you know, Android is rolling out Key Verifier in Google Messages. This feature lets you and your contact verify each other's identity using public encryption keys, either by scanning a QR code or comparing numbers. If a contact's verification status changes, like after a SIM swap, you'll see a warning, giving you extra confidence that you're talking to the right person. If you've ever used Android's Find My Device to track down a lost phone or set of keys, you know how helpful it can be. Now, Find My Device is evolving into Find Hub, making it easier to keep track of your devices, family, and friends all in one place, with more partner brands joining the network. Find Hub is also becoming more personalized. Whether you want built-in luggage tracking from July and Mokobara, ski protection with Peak integration, or Disney-themed Bluetooth tags from Pixbee, there are options to suit different needs. Soon, tags that are enabled with ultra-wideband, starting with moto tag, will provide improved nearby location tracking. Later this year, Find Hub will include satellite connectivity, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family even when cellular service is unavailable. For travelers, new partnerships with airlines such as Aer Lingus, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Iberia, and Singapore Airlines will let you share your Bluetooth tag's location directly with these airlines. This should make recovering lost luggage easier and less stressful. Android continues to strengthen its theft protection features. The new Identity Check adds an extra layer of security if your PIN or password is compromised, and it's rolling out to more devices with Android 16. Factory Reset Protection is getting tougher, restricting all functionalities on devices reset without the owner's authorization. Remote Lock now includes a security challenge question to prevent unauthorized use, and one-time passwords will be hidden on the lock screen in higher-risk scenarios. For those who want even stronger security, Advanced Protection is now available as a device-level setting in Android 16. This combines Google's most robust security tools, like intrusion logging and scam call detection, into one setting that can't be turned off without unenrolling. Whether you're a journalist, a public figure, or just want extra peace of mind, Android 16 makes it easy to activate Advanced Protection. This suite of features brings together Google's top security tools, like Intrusion Logging, USB protection, and scam detection for calls, into one powerful setting. Once enabled, these protections can't be turned off, shielding you against even the most sophisticated attacks. And new features are on the way, including tighter controls over app permissions and network connections. To turn on Google's Advanced Protection, follow these steps: Settings may vary depending on your Android phone's manufacturer. You may be prompted to verify your identity (such as entering your password or using biometric authentication). Once you've completed the steps, you'll see a confirmation that Advanced Protection is active. Note: After activation, these protections cannot be turned off without unenrolling from Advanced Protection. You can review and adjust related security settings within the Advanced Protection menu, such as app permissions and network controls, as new features become available. If you don't see the option, make sure your device is updated to Android 16 and check for any additional requirements, such as a Google account or specific device compatibility. Some features may require additional verification steps, like using a security key or two-factor authentication, especially if you're enrolling for the first time or on a new device. While Android is doing a lot to protect you, there are a few extra steps you can take to boost your security: Install strong antivirus software: This adds another layer of defense against malware and suspicious apps. Google Play Protect, which is built-in malware protection for Android devices, automatically removes known malware. However, it is important to note that Google Play Protect may not be enough. Historically, it isn't 100% foolproof at removing all known malware from Android devices. So, you may want to choose a strong antivirus app and keep it updated for maximum protection. Get my picks for the best 2024 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices. Keep your device updated: Always install the latest Android updates to patch any security vulnerabilities. Updates often include important security fixes that protect against new threats. To do this, go to Settings, tap System or About phone, select Software update or System update, then tap Download and Install if an update is available. Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts to reduce the risk if one is compromised. Consider a password manager to generate and store complex passwords. Get more details about my best expert-reviewed password managers of 2025 here. Be cautious with app permissions: Only grant apps the permissions they truly need. Review permissions regularly and revoke any that seem unnecessary or intrusive. Enable two-factor authentication: This adds an extra step to your logins, making it more difficult for others to access your accounts. Most major apps and services offer this feature in their security settings. Download apps only from the Google Play Store: Avoid third-party stores, which are more likely to host unsafe apps. The Play Store has security checks that help reduce the risk of downloading malicious software. Regularly review your privacy settings: Make sure you're comfortable with what you're sharing. Adjust settings to limit data sharing and enhance your privacy whenever possible. Consider a personal data removal service: Scammers often start by gathering information about you from public records and data broker sites. Using a personal data removal service can help scrub your personal details from these sites, making it much harder for scammers to target you. If you're concerned about your privacy or just want to take your security to the next level, this is a smart step to consider. While no service can guarantee the complete removal of your data from the internet, a data removal service is really a smart choice. They aren't cheap and neither is your privacy. These services do all the work for you by actively monitoring and systematically erasing your personal information from hundreds of websites. It's what gives me peace of mind and has proven to be the most effective way to erase your personal data from the internet. By limiting the information available, you reduce the risk of scammers cross-referencing data from breaches with information they might find on the dark web, making it harder for them to target you. Check out my top picks for data removal services here. Get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web. Keeping your phone and personal data secure is more important than ever, but Android is making it easier to stay protected with smarter scam detection, new ways to keep track of your devices and loved ones, and the strongest security features yet. By taking a few extra steps, like using strong passwords, keeping your device updated, and considering a personal data removal service, you're adding even more layers of protection against evolving threats. Security is always changing, but with these tools and habits, you can use your Android device with greater confidence and peace of mind. Who do you think should bear the greatest responsibility for keeping your data safe: tech companies, the government, or you as an individual? Let us know by writing us at For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Follow Kurt on his social channels: Answers to the most-asked CyberGuy questions: New from Kurt: Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
USA Today
14-05-2025
- Business
- USA Today
How McAfee's Scam Detection can help you spot fraudulent texts
How McAfee's Scam Detection can help you spot fraudulent texts Show Caption Hide Caption IRS releases list of 'dirty dozen' scams From smishing to new client scams, the Internal Revenue Service is warning taxpayers, businesses and tax professionals to watch out for schemes that threaten financial information. (Scripps News Group) Scripps News You've seen the message: 'Your package is on hold. Click here.' Or maybe, 'Your EZPass toll payment is past due. Pay now to avoid legal action.' Welcome to Scamland, population: all of us. Last year alone, Americans lost more than $16 billion to online scams, a jaw-dropping jump from $10.3 billion the year before, according to the FBI's latest figures. AI-supercharged cyber crooks target people across every demographic with deepfake videos, bogus texts and phishing emails so slick that they ensnare just about everyone at some point. Cybersecurity company McAfee just launched a suite of new features it hopes can slow down online crooks and thieves. It's called Scam Detection, and starting today, the company includes it in all its main protection plans, starting at around $50 per year. I took the new service for a test drive, and I'll get more into how it works and what it does in a second. But first, the bigger question — can it slow the rising tide of scams that seem to get eerily smarter with each click? The emotional toll behind the click 'I had a bunch of packages on the way, so the text [from a mail carrier] made total sense. It fit the moment perfectly,' 34-year-old DeShawn Hoskins, a filmmaker in Austin, Texas, told me over the phone. One tap, and he was out more than $400. 'It made me feel like a sucker,' he admitted. 'It was one click. That's all it took. I'll never forget how fast it happened,' said Cory Camp, 30, a personal trainer and life coach who also lives in Austin. The text message appeared to come from Verizon, but it was actually from scammers who hijacked Camp's SIM card, leaving him with a dead phone and new carrier bills that took months to recover. 'I felt like an idiot. I really did. I thought this kind of thing only happened to older people.' And then, there's Beth Hyland, a 54-year-old administrative assistant in Portage, Michigan, who was swept up in a whirlwind romance on Tinder by a man she planned to marry. He was handsome, attentive and an incredibly proficient conman. In just two months, he not only swept Hyland off her feet, proposed, and convinced her to wire him $26,000 — a huge part of her retirement savings — to 'unlock' a frozen multimillion-dollar payout. She didn't know he was a scammer until her financial advisor — her first real confidant during the ordeal — gently broke the news. More on scam prevention: The futuristic device that verifies you're human in the age of AI 'It felt like being kidnapped by aliens. Like I was drugged on my own brain chemicals,' Beth told me over a video call. 'I was falling in love. But it wasn't real. And it nearly destroyed me.' How are the scammers getting so good? And just in case you read this and think there's no way it could happen to you, I promise you, it can. On the morning I was set to interview McAfee for this very story, an email landed in my inbox — apparently from their team — asking me to sign a non-disclosure agreement. Totally normal, I thought, moving quickly and only half-paying attention as I tapped the link. We sign NDAs all the time when reviewing unreleased tech. But the page it took me to was obviously a fake. 'I write about scams for a living — and I still fell for it,' I confessed later that day to McAfee's Chief Technology Officer Steve Grobman and Senior Product Manager Adam Curfman over video call. 'But the timing, wording and intention of that specific email was insanely spot-on,' I insisted. 'How was that a coincidence?' 'As a scientist who studies statistics as a big part of my day job, I know correlation doesn't equal causation,' Grobman explained. He said that the scammers aren't random, but rather relentlessly data-driven. This generation of cyber crooks buys and mines leaked records from last year's 1.35 billion breach notices — everything from our email and phone numbers to recent purchases — to pre-fill their scripts. They scan public posts on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn for 'trigger events' (moving announcements, vacation selfies, shipment updates) and use third-party cookies on 42 percent of websites to track when you browse banking or shopping sites. Meanwhile, AI-powered bots scrape forums and dark-web markets for the latest successful phishing templates, spinning up new, hyper-targeted campaigns in minutes. 'When you combine all of that, those 'coincidences' become precise pattern recognition. Awareness alone won't cut it — you need a defense that learns and adapts every single day, which is exactly what our AI-powered Scam Detection delivers,' Grobman said. Luckily, all the scammers got out of me was a quick bite on the end of their phishing lure. Verification that they reached a person who might, someday, take the bait and get reeled in all the way, hook, line and savings-account-draining-sinker. Can a tool like Scam Detector stay ahead of the bad guys? The way Scam Detector works should seem familiar: You sign up, add the app to your mobile devices, give it permissions to scan your email account(s), texts, DMs and social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. On your desktop and laptop, you need to add the web extension. Then, it runs nonstop in the background of all your devices, scrutinizing every single thing coming in — analyzing emails, texts and videos — to stop and flag potential scams in real time. If it spots one, it sends you an instant notification to say 'hey, don't respond to that one, here's why, and here's how to make sure you don't get duped in the future.' Education is a big part of this specific tool, which is a nice touch. 'We built this to meet people where scams happen most,' said McAfee product manager Adam Curfman. 'That means texts, social apps, even fake videos. This tech flags suspicious content before it can trick you, and we're constantly evolving along with the [scammer techniques].' There's also an interactive element. If you get any message you're not sure about, you can take a screengrab and text it to McAfee to analyze, which feels a lot like texting a paranoid uncle named 'McAfee,' for a second opinion. So, will McAfee's scam detection work? Early users say yes — with a few caveats. 'It's not magic. But it's one more layer between you and getting swindled,' Camp said. 'It's like a seatbelt. You hope you never need it — but you're glad it's there.' 'We've been trained to click fast,' Hoskins added. 'This tech forces you to slow down and think. That alone could save someone's entire life savings.' McAfee says it can already catch deepfake videos with up to 96 percent accuracy, and scammy texts with a 99 percent track record. For people like Camp, Hoskins, Beth Hyland and yes, even me, all of this is a welcome relief, but it's only part of the picture. The company also partnered with a non-profit organization called FightCybercrime, and launched the Keep It Real campaign to elevate scam survivor stories. The hope? To end the stigma, warn others, and make cybercrime less isolating overall. 'We don't 'fall' for scams or get 'duped.' We're victimized and manipulated,' Hyland insists. 'That language matters. So does talking about it. Scammers count on our shame and silence.' Let's be honest — scams are everywhere, and they're not slowing down. But doing something is always better than nothing. At the very least, maybe we can stop blaming ourselves. Maybe we can finally stop clicking. Jennifer Jolly is an Emmy Award-winning consumer tech columnist and on-air contributor for "The Today Show.' The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. Contact her via or @JennJolly on Instagram.
