Google adds opt-in Gemini scam checks to Messages conversations
Google is adding an opt-in enhanced protection setting to Google Messages that uses Gemini AI to assess conversations with unknown senders for signs of scams. The update matters because it is designed to catch sophisticated fraud that may unfold gradually, while also checking suspicious links before users open them.
The feature combines cloud-based Gemini analysis with on-device Gemini Nano checks of web signals in unfamiliar URLs. Google says data used in cloud analysis is encrypted and processed in a secure space it cannot access. Other announced measures block and flag attempts to enable call forwarding, conceal sensitive information during screen-sharing, and expand scam detection in chat notifications to more Android manufacturers, with hundreds of millions of additional users expected later this year.
- Google Messages is getting opt-in Gemini scam checks.
- Gemini Nano will inspect unfamiliar links before they open.
- Scam alerts are expanding to more Android devices.
New here? Start with this
Google Messages is an app for sending text messages on Android phones. Scams can arrive from people a user does not know and may build over several messages, sometimes using links to imitate trusted organisations or persuade someone to share money or personal details.
Google, which makes Android and the Messages app, says its optional protection uses Gemini, its AI system, to look for signs of scams in conversations with unfamiliar senders. Some checks use cloud-based Gemini analysis, while Gemini Nano on the phone checks web signals in unfamiliar links. The feature sits alongside other Android protections, including warnings about suspicious call forwarding and scam messages.
The changes matter because text messages and links are common ways scammers try to reach people. The setting is opt-in, so users can choose whether to enable it; Google says information used for cloud analysis is encrypted and processed in a secure space that the company cannot access.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Opt-in Gemini checks could help people spot scams that develop gradually and links that look convincing, while reducing the burden on users to identify fraud themselves. Supporters may see the combination of cloud analysis, on-device checks and other protections as a proportionate use of AI, particularly if it reaches more Android users and the data safeguards work as Google describes.
The case against
Even an opt-in system may raise concerns about analysing private conversations, since people could feel pressure to enable it for their own safety or may not fully understand how their messages are processed. Critics may also question whether the stated safeguards are sufficient, whether AI checks can misread legitimate messages, and how much confidence users should place in automated warnings when scammers adapt.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by The Verge as “Android is using AI to suss out scammers in Google Messages”.