Google has rolled out new AI-powered defences against scam messages and fake calls on Android. The protections use Gemini models to study suspicious conversations, warn before you open links from unknown numbers, and block apps from silently switching on call forwarding. The features are reaching eligible devices now, with more phones getting them later this year.
Cloud-based scam analysis in Google Messages
The biggest change is inside Google Messages. For conversations with unknown senders, the app can now send the chat to Google’s cloud for a deeper fraud check powered by Gemini. Google runs this analysis inside its Private AI Compute environment, which is meant to keep the message content private even while the model studies it. The check looks for patterns like fake bank alerts, spoofed numbers, and payment requests that show up in real fraud campaigns.
This cloud analysis is switched off by default, so users who want it need to enable it in the Messages settings. On top of that, Gemini Nano running on the device itself checks unfamiliar links against real-time web signals, and the app now shows clearer warnings before you open any link sent by a number that is not saved in your contacts. Google says its existing Phone and Messages scam detection already flags more than 5 million suspected scam calls and texts every month, and the new layer is expected to catch more.
Call forwarding blocks and verified bank calls
Android now stops apps from turning on call forwarding in the background without the user knowing. If a scammer tries to redirect your calls to their own number, the system blocks it. When you dial an MMI forwarding code yourself, Android shows a warning before the code takes effect, since scammers often trick people into dialling these codes during fake support calls.
The verified bank calls system, which Google introduced earlier this year, is also expanding to more financial institutions. The system checks whether an incoming call really came from a bank’s call centre or is a spoofing attempt, and drops the call automatically if the verification fails. Google says it has blocked more than 3 million fraudulent calls for Banco Brasil and Itaú Unibanco alone since June, and Revolut and other global banks are supported too.
The on-device scam detection in chat notifications, which first launched on Pixel phones, will reach hundreds of millions of more users through Android device partners later this year. Android’s sensitive-information masking is also expanding to Chrome and Android WebView, hiding login fields and payment screens during live screen sharing.
FAQ
How do I turn on the new scam protection in Google Messages?
Open Google Messages settings and look for the scam protection option. The cloud-based analysis is disabled by default, so you have to switch it on yourself.
Does the new Android scam check read all my messages?
It only studies conversations with unknown senders, and Google runs the analysis in its Private AI Compute environment so the content is not kept on its servers.
What is call forwarding abuse on Android?
Scammers secretly redirect your incoming calls to their own number so they can steal OTPs and bank calls. Android now blocks apps from enabling call forwarding without your action.
Will these protections work on my phone?
They are rolling out to eligible devices now. Keep your Android version and Google apps updated to get the features as they reach your phone.
Are verified bank calls available in India?
Google is adding more banks to the system in phases. Check with your bank to see if it supports verified calls on Android.
