Google reminds Android users of an overlooked scam detection tool

Google is highlighting Circle to Search’s existing ability to identify suspicious text messages using AI Overviews.

We tested the functionality, and it works as intended, with Google explaining why a message might be fraudulent and suggesting next steps.

Google Lens offers the same scam-checking functionality on phones without Circle to Search, including iPhones.

Google’s suite of scam detection features is great at filtering out suspicious messages and calls before you fall for them. The tech giant has been steadily improving the collection and rolling it out to more users, though that’s also the big catch here. Not all scam detection features are available on every Android phone. Newer developments, like enhanced protection mode in Google Messages, are available on even fewer devices. With the company announcing new tools, it’s worth revisiting an existing one that’s available to a much wider range of users and devices.

Google is highlighting that scam detection is available via Circle to Search (CtS), giving a …