Google has announced a new security feature designed to protect Android users from the growing threat of AI-powered impersonation scams. Called Fake Call Detection, the feature is rolling out globally this month through the Phone by Google app on Android 12 and newer devices, beginning with Google Pixel smartphones.
The new tool comes as scammers increasingly use artificial intelligence to imitate the voices of family members, friends, employers, and other trusted contacts. As more people ignore calls from unknown numbers, fraudsters have adapted by spoofing familiar phone numbers and using AI-generated voices to make their scams appear more convincing.
One common example involves a person receiving a call that appears to come from a family member, such as their mother. The caller ID may display "Mom," and the voice may sound exactly like hers. However, the call is actually coming from a scammer using AI technology to create a realistic impersonation, often claiming there is an emergency and requesting money.
Google's new Fake Call Detection feature is enabled by default and works automatically in the background without requiring users to take any action.
The system operates through what Google describes as a "digital handshake" between devices. When someone from your contacts calls you using the Phone by Google app, their phone silently sends a verification signal confirming that the call is genuinely being made from their device.
If a scammer attempts to impersonate that contact, the verification signal will be missing. In that situation, your phone can automatically check with the real device linked to that contact. If the actual device confirms that no call is being made, Android will display a warning on your screen, alerting you that the call may be fraudulent and advising you to end the conversation.
Google says the technology is built on top of Rich Communication Services (RCS), the modern messaging standard that has been gradually replacing traditional SMS. Because of this, other developers and companies may eventually be able to integrate similar protections into their own communication platforms.
The announcement was part of a broader set of Android updates unveiled by Google.
Among the new features is a Google Photos tool called Wardrobe, which uses AI to identify clothing items appearing in your photo library and organize them into a virtual closet. Users can then browse outfits and virtually try on different combinations. The feature will begin rolling out next week to eligible users in the United States, India, and Brazil on Android 10 and newer devices.
Google is also introducing a new "Catch Me Up" feature for Google Play Books. This tool generates recaps of previously read content, making it easier for readers to jump back into a book after taking a break. Users can also highlight passages and ask questions about the text. The feature is currently rolling out for select English-language titles.
Additionally, Google's Circle to Search feature is receiving an upgrade. Previously used to identify individual objects on a screen, the feature can now recognize and search for every item within an outfit at the same time. Instead of searching for shoes, shirts, or accessories one by one, users can now get results for an entire look with a single action. The update is available now on Android 14 and newer devices that support Circle to Search.
With AI-generated scams becoming increasingly sophisticated, Google says its new Fake Call Detection system is designed to provide an extra layer of protection and help users verify who is really on the other end of the phone before sharing sensitive information or sending money.
