Google is rolling out optional Gemini-powered scam detection in Google Messages and device-level link protection across select Pixel and Samsung devices to combat rising digital fraud. The security updates arrive alongside measures to block hidden call forwarding, hide sensitive screen-sharing data, and verify bank calls.
Gemini-Powered Scam Detection Arrives in Google Messages
Google is bringing advanced artificial intelligence directly to messaging platforms to tackle sophisticated fraud attempts. An optional Enhanced protection setting in Google Messages uses Google’s Gemini models to evaluate the intent behind incoming messages rather than just scanning for known malicious links. The system assesses whether an unknown sender is attempting to deceive the recipient through conversational manipulation.
To illustrate the capability, the company shared an example scenario where an unknown sender pretends to send a photograph of a dog. When the recipient notes the wrong number, the sender continues the conversation and asks for the recipient’s name to build personal rapport. The AI model is designed to catch these manipulative social engineering tactics before the user shares sensitive information.
Privacy remains central to the implementation. Android analyzes messages in a secure, encrypted environment called Private AI Compute, ensuring that neither Google nor third parties can access the data.
On-Device Link Checks and Expanded Device Rollout
Alongside cloud-based conversation analysis, a lighter on-device model called Gemini Nano scans Google Messages links directly on the phone before a user clicks them. This local inspection aims to spot phishing and malicious websites earlier while reducing the need to send every URL to a remote server.
Google Brings Gemini-Powered Scam Detection to Android MessagesGoogle is expanding scam protection in Android Messages with Gemini-powered AI that can analyze suspicious conversations, not just individual messages.The new Enhanced protection mode is designed to identify more… pic.twitter.com/gdNTHfRLz4
— https://x.com/tchsignal/status/2111140009357296068
These initial AI capabilities will roll out over the coming weeks, but launch availability is tied to specific hardware. Supported devices include Pixel 10 and newer models, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series, Galaxy Z Flip8, and Galaxy Z Fold8.
At the same time, the broader scam warning notification feature—previously exclusive to Pixel devices—is expanding to more Android phones. Google is partnering with manufacturers including Honor, Motorola, OPPO, OnePlus, realme, vivo, and Xiaomi to bring these alerts to their devices later this year.
Screen Sharing Protections and MMI Code Safeguards
Digital scammers frequently exploit device settings beyond simple text messages. To counter this, Android is introducing new safeguards aimed at screen sharing and call management.
Starting this month, devices running Android 15 and newer versions will automatically mask passwords, banking details, and credit card security numbers whenever users share their screens with Chrome or Android WebView open.
In December, Google will introduce a protection system designed to stop background apps from secretly enabling call forwarding. The tool also triggers warnings if a fraudster tricks a user into entering an MMI short service code, which criminals use to reroute incoming calls to another number.
Automated Bank Call Verification in Brazil
Beyond on-device software, Google is tackling bank impersonation scams through direct carrier and financial integrations. In Brazillian banking collaborations, Android checks incoming calls against participating financial institutions to verify if they genuinely originated from the bank.
If the caller fails authentication, the phone automatically terminates the call and alerts the user. The feature requires the partner bank’s application to be installed and active.
Since launching in June, this verified financial call protection has blocked more than three million fraudulent calls impersonating Banco do Brasil and Itaú Unibanco. Google notes the tool has also expanded to Revolut customers, with additional banking partners scheduled to join.