Google Strengthens Its Digital Shield: Launches New Tools to Prevent Online Scams and Fraud

Web Editor

October 19, 2025

a laptop with a padlock on the screen and a lock on the screen next to it is a blue icon, Andries St

Introduction

In the midst of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Google has announced a set of new tools designed to protect users from increasingly sophisticated digital threats. According to the company, 80% of people fear losing access to their accounts due to a hack, making the technological focus on reinforcing prevention, fraud detection, and secure account recovery.

Five New Features to Fortify Digital Security

The updates presented by Google include improvements in messaging, identity verification, and protection against malicious apps:

  • Google Messages: now automatically disables links in suspicious spam messages, reducing the risk of entering fraudulent websites.
  • Key Verifier: allows users to confirm the identity of their conversation partner using QR codes or unique numbers, a key reinforcement against impersonation attempts and AI-generated false content.
  • Google Play Protect: will block the installation of apps that request sensitive permissions or are linked to financial fraud, covering over 170 countries and millions of Android devices.
  • Recovery Contacts: an option to assign trusted family members or friends who can help verify the user’s identity in case of lost access.
  • Phone Number Login: simplifies authentication on new devices by automatically recognizing the number linked to the account.

Mexico Among Countries with High Interest in Cybersecurity

Google Trends data reveals that interest in cybersecurity in Mexico reached its peak in September 2025, while topics related to artificial intelligence also showed a significant increase.

Among the most searched terms were “passwords,” “phishing,” “cyberbullying,” and “identity theft.” Additionally, questions like “what is ransomware?” or “how to block spam calls?” were among the most consulted throughout the year.

The regions with the highest activity in cybersecurity-related searches were Mexico City, Querétaro, Yucatán, Nuevo León, and the State of Mexico, reflecting a growing national concern for safeguarding personal data.

AI in Service of Protection

Google also detailed how artificial intelligence (AI) has become a crucial ally in detecting vulnerabilities and creating “secure by design” systems.

  • CodeMender, an AI-powered agent driven by Gemini, capable of automatically identifying and correcting code flaws.
  • An AI Vulnerability Reward Program, which encourages researchers to report security breaches.
  • An updated AI Safe 2.0 Framework, establishing guidelines for developing systems with transparency controls, human oversight, and responsible AI agent management.

With these measures, Google aims to establish a more secure digital ecosystem amidst rising attempts at fraud, identity theft, and AI-driven manipulation.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is Google doing to enhance digital security? Google has introduced five new features focusing on messaging improvements, identity verification, and protection against malicious apps.
  • Why is cybersecurity important in Mexico? Interest in cybersecurity in Mexico has surged, with regions like Mexico City, Querétaro, Yucatán, Nuevo León, and the State of Mexico showing high search activity related to safeguarding personal data.
  • How is Google using AI for cybersecurity? Google leverages AI to detect vulnerabilities, create secure systems, and encourage researchers to report security breaches through reward programs.