Android will warn users before call forwarding and block malicious apps to stop fraud. New security features aim to prevent account theft by scammers.
New Android protections against call forwarding fraud
Android is introducing new security features to warn users before they activate call forwarding and to block apps from triggering such a transfer without user consent. These measures aim to stop fraudsters from redirecting calls to their own numbers, often under the guise of account security.Fraud technique involves deceptive MMI codes
The scam relies on MMI codes, which are sequences of numbers and symbols used to manage phone functions like call waiting or number masking. These codes are not easily understood by most users, allowing scammers to trick them into entering a code that redirects their calls.Google plans to warn users before call forwarding takes effect
Google intends to display a warning message when a user enters an MMI code that would activate call forwarding. This is designed to alert users to the potential risk before the action is completed, giving them a chance to cancel it.Malicious apps will be blocked from triggering call forwarding
Android will now prevent malicious apps from activating call forwarding in the background without user interaction. This added layer of protection aims to stop fraud attempts that do not require the user's direct involvement.New protections for Pixel and select Android devices
These new security features are expected to roll out at the beginning of December on Pixel smartphones and other selected Android devices. However, Google has not yet provided a complete list of the devices that will receive the update.Google also targets screen sharing frauds
In addition to call forwarding protections, Google is addressing screen sharing frauds. These scams allow fake advisors to watch a victim's actions and steal sensitive information. Android is now hiding login and payment fields during screen sharing sessions.Extended data hiding to Chrome and WebView
Google is extending its data-hiding feature to Chrome and apps using Android WebView. This means login fields and payment screens will be automatically obscured during sharing sessions, improving security across more platforms.Verified Financial Calls to combat fake bank numbers
Google is using a system called Verified Financial Calls to verify if an incoming call is genuinely from a bank. If the verification fails, the call is automatically blocked, and the user is alerted. This system has already blocked over three million fake calls from Brazilian banks.Revolut joins effort to expand verification system
Revolut is participating in the Verified Financial Calls initiative, and Google plans to expand the system to other financial institutions. This collaboration aims to increase the number of verified bank calls and reduce the risk of impersonation fraud.
