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Google Messages is introducing a range of new functionalities designed to enhance user privacy while filtering out potentially harmful calls and messages. This includes safeguards against scam texts that pertain to delivery services or job offers, aided by advanced artificial intelligence models. Additionally, features are being developed to assist with international caller management and verification of contacts. The messaging platform announced plans to broaden its intelligent warnings system for suspicious links globally later this year.
As part of initiatives for cybersecurity awareness month, Google has unveiled key updates to its Messages app.
1. Improved Spam Detection: Users participating in the beta version of the app who have opted for spam protection will now benefit from a feature that alerts them to suspicious messages and automatically directs scam texts about package deliveries or job opportunities to a spam folder. This advancement employs on-device machine learning to categorize and evaluate conversations while ensuring that messages remain confidential unless they are marked as spam.
2. Alerts for Dangerous Links: The tech company is currently testing a feature in countries like India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore that notifies users of potentially harmful links found in messages from unfamiliar senders and blocks such content. This service is expected to roll out globally later this year.
3. Warnings for Sensitive Content: Google has launched optional Sensitive Content Warnings within its Messages app. This feature automatically blurs explicit media and offers users choices on how to interact with it. When forwarding such content, a warning appears, reminding users of the potential risks involved. The entire process is managed on-device, upholding user privacy and end-to-end encryption. Adults over 18 can choose to opt in, while younger users will need to opt out.
4. International Sender Protection: The app will soon begin to conceal text messages from unrecognized international contacts. These messages will be redirected to the Spam & blocked folders. Singapore will serve as the testing ground for this feature later this year, with plans for broader implementation to follow in other locations.
5. Verification of Contacts: Another new feature making its way onto the messaging platform is contact verification. This functionality allows users to validate the public keys of their contacts to confirm their identities prior to messaging. A comprehensive public key verification system is being developed, utilizing QR codes or number comparisons. It is expected to be available for devices running Android 9 or newer next year.
