Google Phone app flags AI-impersonation scam calls from spoofed contacts

Google is launching a new scam detection feature in its Phone by Google app to combat AI-powered voice impersonation. When a scammer spoofs a contact's phone number and uses AI to mimic their voice, the app will display a warning: 'Someone may be pretending to call from your contact’s number.' Users can then hang up. The detection relies on a silent confirmation signal sent over end-to-end encrypted RCS between trusted contacts who both use Phone by Google. If the signal is missing—as in a spoofed call—the app flags it. This addresses a growing threat: the FBI reported Americans lost over $893 million to AI scams in 2025.

The feature is turned on by default for Android 12 and later devices, starting with Pixel phones. It’s part of Google’s June Android drop, which also adds AirDrop support to more Android devices and expands Circle to Search. Google emphasizes that the system is built atop RCS, making it adoptable by other apps. To use it, both you and your contact must have the Phone by Google app. The silent signal does not reveal personal data, only verifying the call's legitimacy. This proactive approach aims to stop scams before users are tricked into sharing sensitive information or sending money.