As mobile threats grow more cunning, Google is taking bold steps to protect Android users from evolving digital scams and device theft. The tech giant has announced a suite of new Android security features aimed at safeguarding personal data, preventing fraudulent manipulation, and rendering stolen devices virtually unusable. These updates, slated for release with Android 15 and via Play Services for older versions, mark one of the most comprehensive security upgrades in the platform’s history.
AI-Powered Scam Call Detection
One of the headline features is Google’s new AI-driven scam call detection system. This on-device technology monitors calls in real time and warns users if a conversation resembles known scam patterns — such as urging urgent money transfers or impersonating officials. This system doesn’t upload call data to the cloud, ensuring users’ privacy while offering critical protections.
The feature is built on Google’s evolving AI capabilities and trained on thousands of real-world scam examples. It enables the device to detect subtle linguistic cues and behavioral patterns, alerting users to hang up or proceed with caution. This proactive defense could dramatically reduce the incidence of financial fraud executed over voice calls.
Theft Detection Lock
Physical phone theft has seen a global rise, especially in urban areas. In response, Google has introduced a Theft Detection Lock that uses motion and location sensors to detect suspicious activity — for instance, if a device is snatched and moved rapidly, or its orientation changes abruptly in a public space. If triggered, the phone immediately locks, preventing the thief from accessing data or apps.
This feature goes beyond passive security; it leverages on-device intelligence to recognize the difference between normal movement and potential theft. It works entirely offline and can activate without an internet connection, which is crucial since thieves often try to disable connectivity post-theft.
Offline Device Lock and Auto-Reset
Building on the theft protections, Google has introduced the Offline Device Lock — a mechanism that automatically locks the phone if it remains offline for an extended time. This prevents criminals from keeping the device in airplane mode to bypass cloud-based recovery options.
Additionally, Android now includes an auto-reset option where the device can be wiped clean if not recovered within a specific time. While data is erased, the device remains locked to the original owner’s credentials, thanks to factory reset protection, making it difficult to resell or reuse stolen phones.
Secure Authentication for Device Settings
Google is tightening security around sensitive system changes. Going forward, attempting to disable features like Find My Device or factory reset will prompt the user to enter a biometric credential or passcode. This makes it much harder for thieves to strip away protections even if they gain partial access to the device.
Moreover, authentication will also be required to change security-critical settings such as removing user accounts or switching screen locks. These changes ensure that critical tools for locating or recovering a device stay intact unless explicitly authorized by the user.
Screen Sharing and Call Safeguards
Scammers increasingly rely on convincing victims to download remote access tools or share their screen during a phone call. In response, Google now monitors app installation and screen-sharing behavior during calls. If the phone detects an attempt to install an unknown app or share the screen during a call with an unfamiliar number, it blocks the action and displays a strong warning.
In partnership with select banking institutions, this feature is also being piloted in the UK to automatically hide sensitive information — like bank balances or PIN inputs — when screen sharing is detected during a banking session. This layered defense helps prevent social engineering attacks, especially those aimed at elderly or non-tech-savvy users.
Verified Device Access with Recovery Tools
In the unfortunate event that a user loses their phone, Google is introducing easier access to remote security tools through the updated “Find My Device” app and web portal. If a user marks their device as stolen, it will remain locked even if it’s wiped. A new verification system ensures that only the original user can reactivate the phone using their Google credentials.
Additionally, Android will offer more granular control over location tracking and will even alert users if someone tries to disable these features.
Real-Time App Threat Detection
Google Play Protect is getting a significant upgrade with the introduction of real-time app threat detection. This service now scans not just apps from the Play Store but also those installed from third-party sources. If an app behaves suspiciously — for instance, accessing permissions it doesn’t need — the user is alerted, and the app can be flagged or blocked instantly.
This real-time layer uses Google’s Private Compute Core to process sensitive information on-device, combining machine learning and behavior modeling to spot threats before they cause damage.
Contact and Message Verification Features
Google is also enhancing safety in its native communication apps. Messages will now use AI to scan for suspicious language and scam indicators — particularly in texts impersonating banks or government institutions. If a text is flagged, users are prompted with clear suggestions on how to proceed safely.
To prevent impersonation, Google Contacts will roll out contact verification. Users can verify each other through secure QR codes or number matching, particularly helpful for sensitive conversations or for identifying legitimate business accounts.