AI Scam Detection on Phones

Google describes Scam Detection in the Phone app as a Pixel-only feature available on specified models and in listed countries. On Pixel 9 and later it uses Gemini Nano on-device; earlier supported Pixels use Google on-device machine-learning models. The feature is off by default, can be disabled, and processes call data on the device according to Google’s help page. Google says conversation audio or transcription is not stored or sent to its servers for Scam Detection. Audible beeps indicate the feature is active during the call. The detector looks for patterns associated with scams and can alert through sound, vibration, or notification. Google cautions that not all scam calls will be detected and scammers change tactics. This differs from caller-ID spam labels and from Call Screen, which asks a caller why they are calling before the user answers. Scam Detection may run during a call; it does not verify that a caller is who they claim to be and should not determine a legal finding. When an alert appears, stop before sharing credentials, payment codes, or remote access. Contact the institution using a known number or official app. Check model, SIM country, device location, Phone app version, and opt-in setting before expecting the feature. Use ordinary caution even without an alert, and do not rely on the detector to screen every text, messaging app, or phone brand.