Google Introduces New Safety Layer to Identify Fake Bank and Scam Messages

Online fraudsters never tire of adopting new tricks, with text message tricks remaining their favorites. At other times, it could be an alert from the bank, or it could be an online fraudster threatening to block an account. These messages always send victims into a state of fear and send them doing things that are completely wrong. Google has recently introduced an important safety update to its ‘Circle to Search’ feature on Android.

Earlier, scam messages used to be easily recognized by the use of abusive words or weird links. However, the new messages are so technically and professionally designed that it is very hard to differentiate between actual and spoofed messages. That is why people who are very literate and careful become their prey.

The problem is addressed by Google with Circle to Search. The unique feature of this feature is that users don't have to click on any links or reply to messages; they simply examine the text displayed on the screen.

To use Circle to Search, press and hold the home button or navigation bar for a few seconds. Once the feature is activated, circle the suspicious message with your finger. Google's AI system immediately analyzes the text and, by comparing it with online information, determines whether the message is a scam.

This feature not only provides an alert but also indicates what points in the message appear suspicious. This helps users become more vigilant and discerning in identifying such fraudulent messages in the future.

If Circle to Search isn't available on your Android phone, Google Lens may be a better alternative. Taking a screenshot of a suspicious message and scanning it with Lens can also provide information and warnings about potential scams.