Google has unveiled a significant security enhancement in Android 16 Beta 2, aimed at combating the rising threat of phone scams. This new feature restricts users from changing sensitive settings, such as enabling app sideloading or granting accessibility permissions, while on a call. This proactive measure is designed to protect users from scammers who often exploit phone conversations to manipulate victims into installing malicious software.
Key Takeaways
Android 16 Beta 2 introduces in-call anti-scammer protections.
Users cannot enable sideloading or accessibility permissions during calls.
The feature aims to disrupt common scam tactics that rely on urgency and manipulation.
A warning message alerts users about potential scams when they attempt to change settings during calls.
The Rise of Phone Scams
Phone scams have become increasingly sophisticated, with scammers employing various tactics to deceive victims. One common method involves guiding users to install malware by manipulating them during phone calls. Scammers often create a false sense of urgency, convincing victims to enable risky settings that compromise their device's security.
How Android 16's Feature Works
The new in-call anti-scammer protection works by blocking the following actions during an active phone call:
Sideloading Apps: Users are prevented from installing apps from unknown sources, a common method for distributing malware.
Granting Accessibility Permissions: This restriction stops scammers from gaining control over the device by tricking users into providing accessibility access.
When users attempt to enable these settings during a call, they receive a warning message stating, "Scammers often request this type of action during phone call conversations, so it's blocked to protect you. If you are being guided to take this action by someone you don't know, it might be a scam."
Implications for Users
This feature is a crucial step in enhancing mobile security, particularly as phone scams continue to evolve. By introducing friction into the scam process, Google aims to make it more challenging for fraudsters to succeed. Even if a scammer instructs a victim to hang up and try again, the added step of enabling settings could raise suspicion and deter the victim from proceeding.
With the introduction of in-call anti-scammer protections in Android 16 Beta 2, Google is taking a proactive stance against the growing threat of phone scams. By restricting access to sensitive settings during calls, the company aims to safeguard users from malicious actors and enhance overall mobile security. As this feature rolls out in future updates, users can expect a more secure calling experience, reducing the risk of falling victim to scams.
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Sources
Android's New Feature Blocks Fraudsters from Sideloading Apps During Calls, The Hacker News.
Android 16 will modify call settings to safeguard you from scammers - Huawei Central, Huawei Central.
Android 16 Is Getting A New Anti-Scam Feature, TechloMedia.
Android 16 has a new tool for keeping scammers at bay - Android Authority, Android Authority.