Google has introduced a new fake call detection feature for the Phone by Google app. The update aims to fight impersonation scams that are increasingly powered by AI deepfakes. Google says these scams are becoming a serious and growing threat to mobile users.
Scammers often start by spoofing a trusted phone number. For example, they may copy the number of a family member. Then they route the call through internet-based tools. This makes the call appear as if it is coming from a known contact, according to Google.
After that, attackers use widely available AI deepfake tools. These tools can mimic voices with high accuracy. As a result, scammers may sound like a family member, employer, or authority figure. Google notes that experts now believe most people cannot reliably tell deepfake voices from real ones.
To counter this, Google is adding a silent verification system. When both callers use the Phone by Google app, the devices quietly confirm the connection. This check happens in the background between the two phones.
The system uses end-to-end encrypted RCS to share signals. Google says this process remains completely private. It does not expose personal data during verification.
If a scammer pretends to be someone in your contacts, the signal will not match. In that case, the app will alert the user. A warning will appear during the call in real time. This helps users react before sharing sensitive information.
The feature is turned on by default. However, users can disable it inside the phone by Google settings if they choose. Google is rolling out fake call detection globally this month. It will first arrive on Pixel devices. The feature supports devices running Android 12 and later.
Users with other Android phones can also access it. They need to install the Phone by Google from the Play Store. After that, they must set it as the default calling app. With this update, Google is trying to reduce the impact of AI-driven voice scams. The company aims to give users an extra layer of protection during live calls.
