Google is rolling out a series of new security and privacy updates for Android devices in 2025 to help protect users from scams, fraud, and phone theft.
A major new feature aims to block phone scammers who try to convince users to change device settings or download dangerous apps during a call. Android will now prevent certain risky actions—like disabling Google Play Protect or granting sensitive app permissions—when you’re on a call with an unknown number. If you’re screen sharing, Android will also automatically remind you to stop at the end of the call.
Google is also testing extra protections for banking apps in the UK. If you launch a banking app while on a call with an unknown number and are screen sharing, Android will warn you of the risk and offer to end the call. The feature is being piloted with Monzo, NatWest, and Revolut. We can’t wait for this to come to Canada, because scam calls are getting out of control.
In Google Messages, scam detection powered by on-device AI is expanding to catch more types of fraud, including crypto scams, tech support scams, fake toll fees, and more. The feature alerts users in real time if a suspicious conversation is detected.
Another upcoming feature, Key Verifier, lets users confirm the identity of the person they’re messaging by comparing public encryption keys. This aims to protect against SIM swap attacks and impersonation scams. Key Verifier will launch later this summer for Android 10 and up.
Google is also updating its anti-theft features. Devices running Android 16 will get tougher factory reset protections and better controls over Remote Lock. In high-risk situations, one-time passwords sent to locked devices will be hidden until the user unlocks their phone.
For people who want extra security, Google’s Advanced Protection Program will now offer a device-level setting for Android 16 users to activate the company’s strongest protections against targeted attacks.
Finally, Google Play Protect is getting smarter. It will now catch apps that try to hide by changing their icons, and detect unknown malware using updated on-device scanning rules. The improved protection is available globally for devices with Google Play services.
The company says these updates will continue to roll out through Android releases and Google Play services updates to keep users protected from emerging threats.
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