Google is working to enhance the security of its mobile operating system, focusing on preventing scammers from exploiting certain phone features during calls. One key feature of Android 16 aims to block actions like sideloading apps or enabling accessibility access during an active phone call, both of which are commonly used by scammers to gain control of victims’ devices.
The growing prevalence of online scams, fueled by advanced tools like AI-driven speech synthesis, has put many users at risk. Scammers are increasingly relying on psychological manipulation to convince unsuspecting individuals to share personal information, send money, or install harmful apps. This has prompted Google to develop a new security feature for Android 16 to make it harder for scammers to succeed.
Through this update, Android 16 prevents users from changing certain sensitive settings while they’re on a call. Two of the most targeted settings by scammers are sideloading apps and enabling accessibility access. Sideloading, which allows apps to install other apps from sources outside the Google Play Store, is often used to distribute malware. Accessibility access, on the other hand, gives apps the power to read a user’s screen and perform actions on their behalf, essentially handing over control of the device.
How the Feature Works in Android 16 Beta 2
Google has already rolled out these in-call protections in Android 16 Beta 2, offering users a preview of the upcoming feature. During an active phone call, Android will now block any attempts to sideload apps or grant accessibility access. This is particularly important since scammers typically try to walk victims through the sideloading process over the phone.
A closer look at Android 16 Beta 2 reveals a warning message that appears when users attempt to enable the sideloading feature during a call. The message advises users that this action is commonly requested by scammers and urges caution when guided by unknown callers.
This alert could serve as a red flag, prompting users to reconsider the legitimacy of the call. Furthermore, sideloading permissions are disabled by default, adding another layer of protection.
Added Protection Against Malicious Permissions
Even if a victim has already enabled sideloading or downloaded a malicious app, Android 16 goes further by blocking the granting of accessibility access during calls. This step is crucial because, once an app has this level of control, it can take over the phone and compromise the user’s privacy and security.
Malicious apps that gain access to these permissions can perform harmful actions on behalf of the user, including stealing sensitive data or even locking the user out of their device. By preventing these changes during phone calls, Google aims to thwart scammers who attempt to install malware or access critical permissions during a conversation.
The Growing Threat of Online Scams
As online scams become more sophisticated, scammers are increasingly relying on phone calls to manipulate and defraud individuals. These scams often target older adults or those unfamiliar with digital security practices. The psychological tactics used by scammers—such as creating a sense of urgency or fear—can be highly effective in tricking victims into complying with their demands.
Scammers might ask victims to install apps that promise to help with a supposed issue, such as a fraudulent tech support call. Once the app is installed, the scammer gains access to the victim’s device, potentially leading to further exploitation.
With the introduction of these new security features in Android 16, Google is taking a proactive stance against such tactics. By making it harder for users to sideload apps or grant dangerous permissions during phone calls, Android hopes to reduce the effectiveness of these scams.
Conclusion
The security measures in Android 16 Beta 2 are set to be part of the full Android 16 release later in 2025, building on previous updates like Android 15’s Enhanced Confirmation Mode. As scammers become more sophisticated, these new features—such as blocking sideloading permissions and restricting accessibility during calls—represent a vital step in Google’s ongoing effort to protect users. By introducing these protective layers, Android 16 not only strengthens defenses against online scams but also empowers users to stay safe.
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