Android launches new protections against phone call scammers
1 min read
Summary
Google has introduced a series of new features designed to protect Android owners from phone-call scams.
It will stop users from downloading an app for the first time whilst in the middle of a call with an unknown number.
Moreover, the tech giant will no longer allow users to grant an app accessibility permissions whilst they are on a call, as this could allow a dangerous app to take control of their device and steal personal information.
Google has already been blocking users from disabling its app security service, Play Protect, whilst on calls.
Building on its scam protection tools, it is currently testing a feature which will see a warning pop-up displayed on the screens of users who try to open a bank app whilst screen-sharing with an unknown user, with the aim of combating screen-sharing scams.
The new features have been rolled out on devices running Android 16.