Google Messages gets AI-based scam detection feature: How it works
What's the story
Google has added an AI-powered scam detection tool to its Messages app to keep Android users safe from text message scams.
The feature was announced alongside other new capabilities such as live location sharing in Find My app for Android users.
There are also Pixel-specific features such as multicamera streaming support and new text-to-image options in Pixel Studio.
Functionality
How does the scam detection feature work?
The scam detection tool in Google Messages works by scanning SMS, MMS, and RCS messages for suspicious patterns.
When it detects a potential scam, it alerts users with a warning message, which they can quickly dismiss or report/block the sender.
This feature specifically targets "conversational text scams that begin innocently" before later launching into nefarious schemes.
Strategy
Google's approach to combating advanced scam tactics
Alberto Pastor Nieto, Senior Product Manager for Google Messages, said traditional spam protections are less effective against the latest tactics from scammers who use social engineering techniques mid-conversation.
To combat these advanced scams, Google has invested in new AI models capable of detecting suspicious patterns and delivering real-time warnings during conversations while prioritizing user privacy.
Deployment
Availability and privacy measures of the scam detection feature
The scam detection feature is being launched in English initially and will first come to the US, UK, and Canada. Google plans to bring it to more countries soon.
The feature comes enabled by default but only scans conversations with people not saved in your contacts list.
Google says all message processing happens on-device to ensure user privacy, and users can disable it under Google Messages' Spam Protection settings if they want.
New feature
Google introduces live location sharing in Find My app
Along with the scam detection tool, Google has also rolled out another feature for Android users - live location sharing with "trusted contacts" in the Find My app.
You can choose who you want to share your location with and for how long, and the app gives "regular reminders" about who this information is being shared with.
It was already on Google Maps but now extends its functionality to coordinate meetups or find lost friends within the same app used to locate missing devices.
Pixel updates
New features for Pixel devices
Google is also pushing new features for Pixel devices as well.
Pixel 9 users can connect GoPro cameras or other Pixel phones to their device via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to stream from different angles on compatible apps.
They can also create stylized images or stickers of people using the Pixel Studio app.
Other updates include satellite messaging support on Verizon and T-Mobile networks and suggestions in Pixel Screenshots automatically recommending which screenshots should be added to the user's collections.