How Android 16’s Enhanced Security Stops Scammers from Taking Over
As online and phone scams continue to surge, scammers are increasingly leveraging advanced technologies like AI to impersonate individuals and deceive unsuspecting victims. In response, Google is stepping up its game with Android 16 , the next version of its mobile operating system, which introduces a robust new security feature designed to protect users during phone calls.
One of the most common tactics scammers use is tricking users into sideloading malicious apps or remote control tools. They often guide victims through the process over the phone, gaining access to sensitive data or even full control of the device. To counter this, Android 16 will block users from sideloading apps—installing applications from outside the Play Store—while on a call.
While this new feature isn’t entirely foolproof—scammers could still ask users to hang up and install the app later—it disrupts their strategy and may raise red flags for the user. By interrupting the scammer’s flow, Google hopes to make it harder for fraudsters to succeed.
One of the most common tactics scammers use is tricking users into sideloading malicious apps or remote control tools. They often guide victims through the process over the phone, gaining access to sensitive data or even full control of the device. To counter this, Android 16 will block users from sideloading apps—installing applications from outside the Play Store—while on a call.
While this new feature isn’t entirely foolproof—scammers could still ask users to hang up and install the app later—it disrupts their strategy and may raise red flags for the user. By interrupting the scammer’s flow, Google hopes to make it harder for fraudsters to succeed.
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