Google is rolling out two powerful features that work in the background to protect your phone and your data from harmful threats.1
Whether it’s scam calls trying to trick you or dangerous apps attempting to steal your information, here’s more information about these new security features to keep your devices safe and secure.
New Google Features To Keep You Safe & Secure
Google has introduced two exciting new features to help protect you from scams and threats, all while keeping your privacy safe. Here’s how they work:
- Scam Detection in Phone by Google – This feature alerts you when you might be receiving a scam or fraudulent call, helping you avoid potential scams and fraud.
- Google Play Protect Live Threat Detection – This feature gives you real-time alerts about any malware or dangerous apps on your device, so you can stay protected from harmful software.
These security features are currently available on Pixel devices and will soon be rolling out to more Android phones, so you can enjoy enhanced protection no matter what device you’re using.
With these features, you get cutting-edge security on your phone while keeping your personal conversations private and secure.
Google’s Commitment To Security
The 2023 Global State of Scams Report, which surveyed 49,459 people from 43 countries, shows that 25.5% of people worldwide lost money to scams or identity theft in the past year, totaling losses of $1.026 trillion, with phone calls being their top method.
These scam calls are getting more advanced and harder to pinpoint. That’s why Google uses AI-powered Scam Detection and Live Threat Detection to prevent scams and malware-embedded apps before they can cause harm to your devices.
How These Security Tools Can Help Small Businesses
As a small business owner, you face many challenges, and protecting your company from scams and threats should be a top priority. Security tools, like Google’s new detection features, can help keep your business safe in several important ways.
1. Protecting Your Business From Scammers
Scammers often target small businesses, and phone calls are a common way they try to trick you into giving out sensitive information or money.
If someone pretends to be from your bank or a supplier asking for urgent payments or account information, scam detection tools can warn you before you fall victim to fraud. This means fewer interruptions in your day, and more time spent focusing on your business.
2. Avoiding Malware & Harmful Apps
Small businesses often rely on apps and software to run efficiently. However, installing a harmful app or falling for a malicious software download can expose your business to data theft, loss of sensitive information, and security breaches.
If any app starts acting suspiciously—like tracking your data without permission or doing something unexpected—you will receive alerts in real-time that enable you to act quickly and protect your business’s data.
3. Preventing Data Theft & Fraud
Whether it’s customer information, financial records, or employee data, your business stores a lot of sensitive data. Scam calls and dangerous apps can try to steal this information.
Features that detect scams and threats help you avoid giving away personal or business details to fraudsters as well as stop malware that could compromise your data. By preventing these threats, you ensure that your business runs smoothly and securely.
4. Peace Of Mind
As a business owner, your focus should be on growing your business, not constantly worrying about security threats. With these features running in the background, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that security tools help protect you from the latest scams and malware. You can focus on serving customers, managing your team, and building your brand, all while staying secure.
FAQ
How Can I Tell If A Phone Call Is A Scam?
Scammers often use urgent language and try to create a sense of panic, asking for personal or financial information. Red flags include requests for immediate payment, threats of account closure, or demands for sensitive data. If a caller claims to be from your bank or a government agency, hang up and contact them directly using a verified number.
What Should I Do If I Download A Harmful App?
If you suspect an app on your phone or device is malicious, it’s important to remove it immediately. Run a security scan and change your passwords, especially for business accounts. To prevent this from happening again, make sure that you only download apps from trusted sources and keep your device’s software up-to-date.
How Can I Protect My Business From Fraud?
Since fraud can happen through any device connected to your business network, endpoint detection and protection ensures that all devices—whether employees’ computers, mobile phones, or other connected devices—are secure. This comprehensive approach helps minimize your business’s vulnerability to fraud.
Source:
- Google. (2024, November 13). Safer with Google: New intelligent, real-time protections on Android to keep you safe. Google Online Security Blog. https://security.googleblog.com/2024/11/new-real-time-protections-on-Android.html
