Spam, SMS, and nudity: Google Messages is implementing new security measures against spam

Google rightly continues to highlight the high level of security of its Messages app, which is the default messaging service on most Android devices. After integrating the RCS protocol, allowing end-to-end data encryption, or even spam detection, the Mountain View company has just presented on its blog a series of new features aimed at enhancing user security:

1. Improve fraud detection: The update will enhance the detection of fraudulent SMS messages, primarily targeting parcel delivery and job offer scams. Suspicious messages will be automatically sent to your spam folder or reported. The app will use a machine learning algorithm directly on the device, ensuring the privacy of conversations.

2. Smart warnings about suspicious links: Google Messages will now alert users when they receive a link from an unknown sender and block messages containing links deemed dangerous. After the testing phase in Asia, the functionality will be expanded globally.

3. Blocking international messages: Users will soon be able to automatically hide messages from unknown international numbers. This feature was first tested in Singapore, and will subsequently be rolled out to other countries.

4. Warnings regarding sensitive content: To limit exposure to inappropriate images, images that may contain nudity will be blurred by default. A reminder will appear before sending or transferring sensitive photos, urging caution. These analyzes will be performed locally on the device, thus maintaining confidentiality.

5. Check connection: This new option, expected next year, will enable verification of the identity of contacts by comparing public keys or scanning a QR code. It aims to combat identity theft attempts.

These new methods, supported by artificial intelligence, aim to intensify the fight against increasingly sophisticated threats, while ensuring user confidentiality. Google plans to gradually roll it out to devices running Android 9 or later.