Android Beefs Up Security: From Scam Texts to Lock Screen OTP Protection
Android is stepping up its security game with a series of updates designed to protect users from a growing range of threats. From enhanced scam detection in Google Messages to new privacy features in Android 16, Google is working to keep your data and devices safe.
One of the most notable enhancements is the improvement in scam text detection within Google Messages. Google is now using AI to identify and block a wider range of fraudulent texts, including those related to crypto, financial scams, and even deceptive toll road schemes.
"We’ve just been hearing from users like constantly that this is a problem," said Sameer Samat, Google’s Android ecosystem president, highlighting the increasing prevalence of these scams. The technology analyzes messages for red flags like poor grammar, urgent language, and suspicious links, all while operating on-device to protect user privacy.
This new feature is a welcome addition as text scams are on the rise. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received roughly 60,000 complaints related to toll scams last year, and fake unpaid toll texts nearly quadrupled between January and late February, according to security software maker McAfee.
Beyond scam protection, Android 16 introduces a subtle but significant layer of security for one-time passwords (OTPs). The new version of Android will automatically hide sensitive notification content, particularly OTPs, from the lock screen in “higher risk scenarios.” These scenarios include when the phone isn’t connected to Wi-Fi or hasn’t been unlocked recently, suggesting it might be in unfamiliar hands.
While Android already allows users to manage lock screen notification privacy, this system-level behavior adds an automatic layer, ensuring OTPs are hidden even if the user has chosen to show everything on the lock screen. This builds upon the Android 15 update, which blocked third-party apps from reading notifications that include OTPs.
Google is also enhancing device security with the evolution of Find My Device into Find Hub. This will offer a unified space to locate devices, tagged items, and share locations with loved ones. Furthermore, integration of satellite connectivity is planned for devices and carriers that support it, allowing connectivity even when cellular service is unavailable.
Finally, Advanced Protection in Android 16 makes it easier than ever to turn on Google’s strongest security features for mobile devices, safeguarding against the most sophisticated threats.
These updates reflect Google's commitment to proactively addressing evolving security threats and providing users with a safer and more secure Android experience. From blocking scam texts to securing OTPs, Android is working hard to protect your digital life.
What do you think of these new Android security features? Are they enough to keep you safe? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
