Google is introducing enhanced security measures in Android 16 to safeguard users from scammers and fraudsters. These features will be part of the Advanced Protection Program, providing a higher level of security for individuals at risk, such as journalists and high-ranking officials.
Activating the Advanced Protection Program will automatically enable these security features, ensuring that users are better protected without the need for technical expertise. Once activated, these features cannot be easily disabled without proper user credentials.
Initially, security features will be limited to Google apps before expanding to third-party applications. Users will have access to secure device logs that are tamper-proof and only accessible by the device owner.
Android 16 will also introduce safeguards during calls to prevent risky actions that scammers often exploit. Users will be unable to disable Google Play Protect or install unverified apps from external sources. Additionally, permissions granting core control of the device will be more restricted.
Google is collaborating with UK banks to elevate the security of banking apps, providing prompts to end screen sharing sessions when accessing sensitive information. The use of AI in the default Messages app will help filter out spam and scam messages, as well as detect malicious on-device activities.
These new security features will complement existing ones like Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock, providing a comprehensive defense against potential threats.
