Google tests AI for scam detection, raising privacy concerns

Image: Google

Google is testing a new feature that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect scam calls in real-time. Announced at Google I/O, the feature would analyze phone conversations for patterns associated with scams and alert users when a scam is suspected.

During the demonstration, Google Vice President for Engineering Dave Burke received a call from someone impersonating a bank. His phone displayed a notification: "Likely scam: Banks will never ask you to move your money to keep it safe."

While the audience applauded, privacy advocates expressed concerns. They worry the technology could be misused by private companies, governments, or even stalkers, potentially violating user privacy.

Burke said the feature won't transfer data off the phone as the audio processing happens on your device. But that doesn't necessarily mean it is 100% safe, as with other technologies. Burke hasn't mentioned the security protocols in place. It is a feature still being tested, and it's unclear if it will get rolled out.

The reception for the feature is unsurprisingly mixed. Those who had something positive to say mentioned how they were tired of frequent scam calls. But we also can't discount those worried about what this implies for our privacy. For now, it just shows us one more way tech is using AI to address issues—whether it's effective and safe is another discussion altogether.

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