Google is doubling down on its commitment to user safety with two powerful, new real-time protection features for Android users: Scam Detection for Phone by Google and Live Threat Detection for Google Play Protect. These AI-driven tools are designed to enhance security and provide intelligent alerts, giving Android users more control over their digital safety.
Smarter Scam Detection with Google AI
Every year, scammers steal over $1 trillion worldwide, often through phone calls. To combat this, Google has introduced Scam Detection, powered by the advanced on-device AI model, Gemini Nano, on Pixel 9 and Pixel 6+ devices. This feature identifies suspicious conversations in real-time, warning users with audio, haptic, and visual alerts if a call might be a scam.
With Scam Detection, if someone calls claiming to be your bank and urgently asks for a fund transfer, the AI detects patterns common in scams and immediately alerts you. It’s designed with privacy in mind, as no audio or transcription data is stored, sent, or shared, keeping the entire process on-device. Scam Detection is optional and off by default, so users can choose to enable it or disable it at any time in their settings.
Currently, this feature is being rolled out in public beta for English-speaking Pixel users in the U.S. who use Phone by Google, with plans to expand over the coming months.
Real-Time Alerts Against Harmful Apps
Google Play Protect, already scanning apps for malware, now includes live threat detection with real-time alerts. This new feature monitors app behavior and immediately notifies users if suspicious or harmful activities are detected. For instance, Play Protect’s live detection will now identify stalkerware—apps that might silently collect personal data without consent. With a single alert, users can take immediate action, stopping the threat before it can do harm.
All real-time monitoring is managed through Google’s Private Compute Core, which keeps sensitive information on-device and ensures that no personal data leaves the user’s phone. Google Play Protect’s live threat detection is currently available on Pixel 6 and newer devices, with support for more Android devices on the horizon.
What’s Next for Android Security
These additions reflect Google’s mission to make technology both helpful and safe. Scam Detection and Live Threat Detection are just the latest in a line of robust security features that allow users to feel safer, even as digital threats evolve. To share feedback on Scam Detection, beta testers can use the Phone by Google app’s help and feedback options, helping shape the future of Android security.
