Google has a new anti-fraud security feature in the works

Google is taking proactive steps to protect Android users from the rising tide of online scams. Targeting people’s money and personal info, scammers these days employ clever software tricks to bypass security. According to a credible source, there’s a new anti-fraud security feature underway to counter the issue and it will work through Google Play Protect. Here’s how Google’s new system protects you from scams.

Google’s Anti-fraud Security Feature and How it Works

In last year’s iteration of Play Protect’s real-time scanning for third-party apps, scammers often tricked users into disabling the option. Doing so leaves their finances and personal data vulnerable. Cybercriminals frequently use social engineering tactics and convince Android users to turn off security features voluntarily. 

Google acknowledges that a major portion of malware installation (almost 95%) originates from sideloading third-party apps such as messaging or web browsers. With a solution at hand, Google has collaborated with the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) to launch a pilot program for an advanced anti-fraud system.

Google’s anti-fraud system is exclusive to Singapore for now. It will automatically analyze and block the installation of apps requesting sensitive runtime permissions often abused for financial scams. Specifically, the system targets apps sideloaded from external sources. It will scrutinize if the app has four specific runtime permissions — RECEIVE_SMS, READ_SMS, BIND_Notifications, and Accessibility — commonly exploited in scams.

With the pilot program working, sideloaded apps declaring those specified permissions will be blocked. And users will receive a notification informing them that Play Protect has automatically blocked the app’s installation. Google’s partnership with the CSA seems productive, enhancing user protection by tackling the risks associated with sideloading.

Pilot Program’s Duration and Future Plans

The duration of Google’s anti-fraud pilot program in Singapore remains undisclosed. No one knows for sure when it will officialize in other regions. But one thing is certain; Google is putting a lot of effort into fortifying Android security. Their collaboration with a cybersecurity agency shows how bad online scams have become. After the pilot program ends, users worldwide should expect the feature’s rollout via an update. Google aims to create a safer environment for Android users as soon as possible by leveraging expertise from more security agencies.