Google scam alert for Android

If you’ve ever picked up the phone and heard someone say they’re from your bank — then asked you to share your screen — you’ve probably felt that sinking feeling. Unfortunately, you’re not alone. Banking scams are everywhere, and they’re only getting more convincing.

But now, Google is working on a feature that could spot these scams before they do real damage. The tech giant is developing a smart new tool that will warn you if a suspicious call could be an attempt to empty your bank account.

It’s not live for everyone just yet, but the feature — currently in beta testing — has already appeared on Google Pixel phones, and is expected to roll out more widely with the next Android update. Think of it as a built-in scam filter that watches for dodgy calls and red flags them while you’re still on the line.

How Google’s new scam detection tool protects your bank details

So, how does it actually spot a scam in real time? It’s all about patterns. The new system looks for two specific things:

• You’re on a call with a number that isn’t saved in your contacts
• While you’re on the call, you open your banking app

That’s when Google steps in. A pop-up alert warns you that this could be a scam, giving you the chance to hang up or report the call. It’s a simple idea, but it could stop a lot of people from sharing sensitive info without realising it.

According to tech site Android Authority, the feature is called BankScamCallDetectionService, and it’s already part of Google Play Services version 25.18.31. If you’re using a Pixel phone, you might even have it already.

There’s also talk of more safety tools being added — like quick-access buttons to end the call, or block and report the number. No complicated menus, no guesswork.

How screen-sharing scams target banking app users in Spain

These scams aren’t new, but they’ve evolved fast. Fraudsters now pose as polite, helpful bank staff. They say your account’s been compromised. They tell you to open your banking app — and then ask to share your screen “just to confirm a few things”. That’s when they’re watching everything you do.

Before you know it, they’ve got access to your account, your PIN, and sometimes even more.

It’s not just phone calls either. Scam links are showing up on WhatsApp, dodgy emails pretending to be Gmail security alerts, and even fake offers in games like Fortnite, aimed at kids.

Google’s new tool isn’t a magic fix — but it’s a smart step. By linking phone activity with your app usage, it adds another layer of protection for everyday users, especially the elderly or less tech-savvy, who are often targeted.

And let’s be honest — even the most switched-on among us can get caught off guard when the timing and tone feel “just right”.

When Google’s scam warning feature will launch on Android phones

If you’re using a Google Pixel, there’s a good chance it’s already active. For everyone else, the feature is expected to roll out officially with Android 16. That means by the end of this year or early next, most Android users could have it on their phones automatically.

In the meantime, the usual advice still stands: don’t share your screen with anyone on a call, don’t trust unknown numbers — even if they say they’re from your bank — and always hang up and call your bank back directly if something feels off.

With scams getting smarter, it’s reassuring to see that the tech we rely on daily is finally getting smarter too.

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