Google has launched fake call detection in its Phone by Google app to combat the growing threat of AI-powered impersonation scams. The feature works by verifying calls through end-to-end encrypted RCS when both parties use the app, displaying a warning if the call appears suspicious. Scammers typically spoof phone numbers and use deepfake technology to mimic voices of family members or authority figures.

The feature addresses a serious security concern as experts say deepfake voices have become so realistic that most people cannot distinguish them from real human voices. This technology has made impersonation scams more convincing and difficult to detect, putting consumers at risk of falling victim to fraud or social engineering attacks.

Fake call detection is rolling out globally this month for devices running Android 12 and later, with Google Pixels receiving it first. The protection is enabled by default but can be disabled in app settings. Users with different default phone apps can download Phone by Google from the Play Store to gain this protection against increasingly sophisticated voice spoofing attacks.