Google Messages Adds New Scam Defense
Android users can now enable a new protection tier that uses Gemini models to identify threats before links are clicked.
By Chioma Kuznetsov ·
Google Messages for Android is expanding its security features with a new tier called Enhanced Protection. This update aims to reduce the volume of spam and fraudulent messages reaching users on the platform. The rollout began following an announcement made earlier this month.
The new mode introduces three distinct capabilities to improve detection rates. Scam Detection relies on cloud-based Gemini models to analyze the context of message threads. This system evaluates the intent of unknown senders more quickly than previous on-device methods. Google states that this approach is better suited for handling novel and sophisticated attacks.
Privacy measures accompany the new detection tools. The system utilizes Android's Private AI Compute framework to process data. Messages are encrypted and handled in a secure space designated as private to the user. Google confirms that this data remains inaccessible to the company and other parties during processing.
The second component focuses on link validation before users interact with them. Enhanced link protection combines the on-device Gemini Nano model with real-time web signals. This hybrid method assesses the trustworthiness of unfamiliar URLs. The feature is currently limited to specific hardware, including the Pixel 10 and newer models.
Samsung devices also support the new link protection. The Galaxy S26 series, Galaxy Z Flip 8, and Galaxy Z Fold 8 are included in the initial list of compatible hardware. Other select devices may also receive the update as the rollout progresses across the ecosystem.
The third change alters how warnings appear in the interface. Alerts for links from unsaved numbers now provide additional context. This redesign gives users more time to review the message before tapping a link. The goal is to encourage a pause in the user interaction process.
Users must manually activate the new features. The option is located in the Protection & safety section of Google Messages settings. The menu now displays three distinct choices: Enhanced protection, Standard protection, and No protection. The app labels the No protection option as not recommended for general use.
The latest beta version, identified as 20261020_00_RC00, contains these changes. 9to5Google reported that the option has been spotted in this build. The standard protection mode remains available as the middle ground in the settings menu.
