Google has introduced several new security features for Android devices, all of which are available for free. These updates aim to protect users from scammers, malware, and other threats to their security and privacy.
The first new feature is protection against scam phone calls. This includes blocking attempts to disable Google Play Protect, sideload apps without vetting, or grant accessibility permissions to malicious apps. Android’s in-call protections run on non-contacts and are available on devices running Android 6 or higher.
Google is also testing a new system for banking app security during phone calls. If you launch a banking app while sharing your screen with an unknown contact, your device will warn you about the possible dangers. You’ll be given the option to end the call and turn off screen sharing with just a single tap.
Another improvement is enhanced scam detection in Google Messages. The feature now warns users about suspicious text conversations that could lead to job scams, package delivery scams, or other types of fraud.
Google has also introduced Key Verifier, a tool that verifies the identity of the person you’re texting via public encryption keys. This will help prevent cybercriminals from impersonating your contacts and steal sensitive information.
To further protect users, Google is expanding its mobile phone theft protection to more devices running Android 16. The company is also strengthening protections against factory resets by restricting such actions without owner authorization. Additionally, the Remote Lock feature will prompt you to answer a security challenge question to verify your identity.
Google’s Advanced Protection Program offers cryptographically verified and authenticated login operations to protect user accounts, devices, and data. The latest version of Advanced Protection will be available on all devices running Android 16.
Finally, Google is improving its Google Play Protect feature by incorporating live threat detection to alert users to malicious apps with hidden or changed icons. This protection will reach select devices soon.
These free updates aim to enhance overall Android security and protect users from emerging threats.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/your-android-phone-is-getting-a-big-security-upgrade-for-free-heres-whats-new