Pixel Phones Receive Two Major Security Updates to Shield You from Scammers

Google Pixel has enhanced its security by introducing innovative anti-fraud features, including real-time scam detection and Play Protect, to safeguard users against the increasing number of digital scams.

Enhanced Scam Protection

With scams becoming more frequent and sophisticated, even the vigilant can fall prey. Fortunately, new features on your phone are stepping up to shield you. Google Pixel owners have just received two major updates.

Real-Time Scam Detection for Google Pixel

Google has rolled out live scam detection on its Pixel Phone app, a feature introduced at the Google I/O in May, powered by Google’s AI, Gemini. Gemini listens for “conversation patterns commonly associated with scams” and alerts you through audio and haptic signals when detected. A warning displays, indicating a “Probable Scam” and “Suspicious Activity Detected for This Call.”

You can then choose to end the call or mark it as non-fraudulent, but caution is advised: only do so if you’re certain of the call’s legitimacy. Google ensures that this feature does not record or transcribe conversations on your device or any Google server. Currently in testing, it is available in the U.S. for Pixel 6 to 9 models, and only in the English version of the Google Phone app.

Play Protect: Enhanced Protection Against Malicious Apps

An improved version of Play Protect has also been launched. This system aims to detect and alert you about suspicious apps on Google Play in real-time. The goal is to identify not only overtly malicious apps but also to continuously track signs of malice, even in apps that remain dormant to bypass existing security measures.

This monitoring is conducted by Android’s Private Compute Core, which secures your data and alerts you of any suspicious activity. Currently deployed on Pixel 6 and newer models, it is set to become available on other Android phones “in the coming months,” including those from Lenovo, OnePlus, Oppo, and Nothing.

Caution Amid Rising Scams

Scams are on the rise, especially as the holiday season approaches, with fraudsters targeting those hunting for bargains. Stay alert, particularly when purchasing high-value items like electronics. Remember: if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. And if someone calls claiming to be from your bank, hang up and call back using the official number.