Google's anti-scam feature: Android users in Singapore to be blocked from installing certain unverified apps

SINGAPORE — In an effort to protect users against malware scams, Google is set to introduce a new feature that will automatically block Android users in Singapore from installing apps from unverified sources.

This feature has undergone pre-testing and was developed as part of the ongoing partnership between Google and Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) on cybersecurity and anti-scam efforts.

"Singapore will be the first country to begin a phased pilot of this feature on Android devices in the next few weeks," the tech giant said in a press release on Wednesday (7 February), highlighting that this builds on the existing Google Play Protect malware protection system.

The new feature targets applications from unverified sources, commonly known as sideloaded apps, and will automatically block installations if they frequently request sensitive runtime permissions often exploited for financial fraud. Over 95 per cent of installations of major fraud malware families exploiting sensitive runtime permissions originate from internet-sideloading sources.

Furthermore, this feature builds upon previous efforts such as real-time app scanning, which advises users to conduct a real-time app scan to better detect whether an Android app might be infected with malware. Once the scan is completed, users will receive notifications about whether the app could be safely installed.

Google said that since the introduction of real-time app scanning in October, over 515,000 potentially harmful apps were identified and more than 3.1 million warnings or blocks were issued.

Strengthening defences against rising Android malware scams in Singapore

Police had said in September last year that Singapore has seen a rise in Android malware-related scams, with over 750 cases reported in the first half of 2023, resulting in losses exceeding S$10 million.

Chua Kuan Seah, deputy chief executive of CSA, shared, "The fight against online scams is a dynamic one. As cybercriminals refine their methods, we must collaborate and innovate to stay ahead. Through such partnerships with technology players like Google, we are constantly improving our anti-scam defences to protect Singaporeans online and safeguard their digital assets."

In addition to introducing new cybersecurity features, Google said it will support CSA by providing ongoing assistance with malware detection and analysis, sharing insights and techniques related to malware, and developing education resources for both users and developers.

The tech giant added that more anti-scam features are in the pipeline, 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 things to come to help keep our users safe," Eugene Liderman, director of Android security strategy at Google, said, "We will be closely monitoring the results of the pilot to assess its impact and make adjustments as needed."

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