SINGAPORE — In an effort to protect users from malware scams, Google will introduce a new feature that will automatically block some Android users in Singapore from installing apps from unverified sources.
This feature has been pre-tested and was developed as part of Google's ongoing partnership with the Cyber Security Authority of Singapore (CSA) on cybersecurity and anti-fraud initiatives.
“Singapore will be the first country to begin a phased pilot of this feature on Android devices in the coming weeks,” the tech giant said in a press release on Wednesday, February 7, adding that this will add to existing Google Play Protect. A malware protection system that emphasizes that it is based on .
This new feature targets applications from unverified sources, commonly known as sideloaded apps, that automatically prevent installation if they frequently request sensitive runtime permissions that are commonly exploited for financial fraud. Block. More than 95% of installations of major fraudulent malware families that exploit sensitive runtime privileges originate from Internet sideloading sources.
Additionally, this feature builds on previous efforts such as Real-time App Scan to better detect whether your Android app may be infected with malware. Advise users to do so. Once the scan is complete, users will receive a notification regarding whether the app was successfully installed.
Google says it has identified more than 515,000 potentially harmful apps and issued more than 3.1 million warnings or blocks since introducing real-time app scanning in October.
Strengthens protection against rising Android malware scams in Singapore
Police announced in September last year that Android malware-related scams were on the rise in Singapore, with more than 750 cases reported in the first half of 2023, with losses exceeding S$10 million.
Chua Kuan Seah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of CSA, said: “The fight against online fraud is a dynamic one. As cybercriminals refine their methods, we must work together and innovate to stay ahead. “We're constantly striving to do so through partnerships like this with technology companies like Google.” We are strengthening our anti-fraud defenses to protect Singaporeans online and protect their digital assets. ”
In addition to introducing new cybersecurity features, Google supports CSA by providing ongoing assistance with malware detection and analysis, sharing malware insights and techniques, and developing educational resources for both users and developers. Then he said.
The tech giant added that more anti-fraud features are in the works, as a “safe and trusted experience” on Android is a “top priority” for the company.
“This pilot in Singapore is just one of many new initiatives we are taking to keep our users safe,” said Eugene Leiderman, director of Android security strategy at Google. We will closely monitor the results and assess their impact.” Please make adjustments as necessary. ”
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