Google is introducing new security features and combining old ones in the Advanced Protection app in Android 16.The aim is to increase device security and protect people from scammers, especially from high-risk groups like journalists and high-ranking officials.
The best part is that all the security features are activated immediately after activating the advanced protection, which you only need to tap the switch to activate. You don’t need to have any knowledge in this area. In fact, the enabled security features cannot be easily deactivated as it requires user credentials.
The app-related security features will only be available for Google apps before they are rolled out to third-party software.
With Android 16, users will have access to secure device logs that cannot be edited and will only be accessible by the user.
During a call, the system will block risky actions that can be easily exploited by scammers. For example, you won’t be able to disable Google Play Protect, install unverified apps from browsers or messaging apps, or grant apps permissions to control basic device functions.
Android 16 will also improve the security of banking apps. Google is currently working closely with UK banks such as Monzo, NatWest and Revolut. During a screen sharing session, the system will prompt the user to end the call when the banking app is launched, as this is one of the most common ways for fraudsters to get sensitive information from users.
Google is also using AI to filter out fraudulent and spam messages when using Google’s standard “messages” app. AI also detects malicious app activity on the device as some apps try to hide or change icons. The machine learning algorithm constantly scans text or binary patterns to detect potential malware.
The new features will co-exist with older features such as Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock.