Google Messages Adds New Features to Fight Scams and Spam

Google is boosting security in its Messages app with five new features designed to tackle scams, spam, and harmful links, aiming to cut down on fraudulent text message attempts.

It's crucial to avoid clicking on links from unknown sources as they might lead to phishing scams, malware, or even use your device for hidden tasks like cryptocurrency mining. Always verify a link's reliability before clicking.

Already pre-installed on most Android devices, Google Messages blocks suspicious links and shows warning pop-ups to prevent downloading malicious files or entering personal details on fake websites. Having blocked over two billion suspicious messages so far, Google continues to enhance its protection with five new features.

Google Messages Security: Smarter Detection of Suspicious Messages and Links

First, Google will implement machine learning to detect recurring scam messages, such as fake job offers or delivery issues. Detected fraudulent messages will be automatically sent to the spam folder. Note that message content stays on the device unless flagged. This protection is currently available in the beta version for users with spam protection enabled.

While Google Messages already blocks suspicious links with pop-up warnings, the system can be bypassed by simply clicking "Continue." In places like India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, the app will go further, blocking messages with suspicious links and giving stronger warnings. This feature will roll out globally later this year.

Another new option allows users to automatically hide SMS from foreign numbers not in their contacts. These messages will be sent straight to the spam folder. Initially launching in Singapore, this feature will expand to more countries soon.

Google Messages Security: More Control Over Sensitive Communications

Scammers sometimes impersonate a known contact. Soon, users will be able to verify public keys across apps to confirm identities, comparing numbers or scanning a QR code. This verification system will be available on Android 9+ devices.

Lastly, a new feature will warn about sensitive content like nudity, automatically blurring images and asking if you want to view them. This system will apply to both received and sent images, reminding users of risks. Content detection will happen locally, and messages will stay end-to-end encrypted. This feature will be enabled by default for minors.