Google has unveiled new tools to fight online scams, including safer messaging, improved account recovery, and educational initiatives to help users spot and avoid fraud.
Google has announced a suite of new tools designed to combat the growing threat of online scams and fraud.
According to Google, nearly 60 per cent of people globally have experienced a scam in the past year, with advances in AI and digital tools making fraudulent activity more convincing than ever.
The company said: “Just a few years ago, spotting a phishing email meant looking out for tell-tale signs like grammatical errors or strange attachments.
“Today, people are routinely encountering elaborate phishing attempts that use techniques like voice cloning, deepfakes and social engineering for convincing impersonations.”
To address this, Google is rolling out several new safety features across its platforms.
In Google Messages, users will now see warnings when clicking suspicious links in texts, with protections automatically blocking access to potentially harmful websites unless marked as safe.
The app is also introducing Key Verifier, a new authentication tool that allows Android users to scan a QR code to confirm the identity of trusted contacts, ensuring encrypted messages stay private and secure.
Google is also expanding account recovery options, allowing users to designate Recovery Contacts, trusted friends or family members who can help verify identity if access is lost.
Another addition, Sign in with Mobile Number, simplifies recovery by allowing users to regain account access using their phone number and lock-screen passcode instead of passwords.
Beyond tools, Google is promoting scam awareness through its interactive Be Scam Ready game and partnerships with organisations like the National Cybersecurity Alliance and AARP to protect young and elderly internet users.
Google said: “These innovations reflect our commitment to staying one step ahead of scammers.
“We’re building a more secure digital environment for everyone.”
Google unveils new scam protection methods in Messages
