Google is enhancing Android's security features to better protect users from phone call scams. The company has introduced new measures that prevent users from unknowingly installing harmful apps or granting sensitive permissions during suspicious calls.
According to The Verge, Android will now automatically block users from sideloading apps—that is, installing apps from outside the official Play Store—while on a call with an unknown contact.
Additionally, the system will prevent users from granting accessibility permissions to apps during such calls. If a user attempts to change these settings during a call, a warning message will appear, stating: "This setting is blocked to protect your device," and cautioning that "scammers may try to take control of your device by asking you to allow accessibility access for an app."
These protections are processed entirely on the device and are available on devices running Android 16. They build upon existing security measures, such as preventing users from disabling Google's Play Protect service during phone calls.
In addition to these features, Google is testing a new function in the UK designed to combat screen-sharing scams. When users attempt to open a banking app while sharing their screen on a call with an unknown contact, Android will display a warning about a "likely scam."
Users will have the option to end the call immediately or wait 30 seconds before proceeding. This feature is initially being piloted with banking apps like Monzo, NatWest, and Revolut on devices running Android 11 and newer.
These updates are part of Google's ongoing efforts to protect Android users from various forms of phone-based scams, including those involving fraudulent messages and impersonations.
Source: The Verge
