In a significant move to combat the rising tide of online financial fraud, Google has recently launched its Enhanced Google Play Protect feature in the Philippines.
Unveiled on “Safer Internet Day,” this advanced security measure has already blocked over 3.2 million high-risk app install attempts since February 10, preventing potentially devastating financial losses. This equates to potentially saving millions of pesos, highlighting the scale of the threat and the impact of Google’s intervention.
Yves Gonzalez, Google PH Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy
Financial scams, often perpetrated through malicious apps disguised as seemingly harmless tools or games, pose a serious and growing threat in the Philippines. These apps, frequently downloaded from unofficial online sources (a practice known as “sideloading”), often steal personal data or siphon funds from unsuspecting users.
Google’s Enhanced Play Protect directly addresses this issue by providing real-time scanning of sideloaded apps, detecting and blocking those that exhibit malicious behavior.
“Online safety is crucial in today’s fast-paced digital landscape,” said Emilio Benito Aquino, Chairperson and CEO of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). “Google is reinforcing its commitment to user security with the launch of Enhanced Play Protect in the Philippines. This innovation automatically blocks the installation of potentially harmful apps from unofficial sources. We applaud Google’s efforts to protect Filipinos online. By working together, we can build a stronger foundation for internet safety in the country.”
Advanced detection techniques with Google’s Enhanced Play Protect
The enhanced security feature employs sophisticated detection techniques, including AI-driven methods to counter the increasingly complex evasion tactics used by malicious app developers. Its successful implementation in other countries, including India, Thailand, Singapore, and Brazil, has since paved the way for its deployment in the Philippines.
“Google is deeply committed to digital responsibility and internet safety,” explained Jackie Wang, Google Country Director for Thailand and the Philippines. “This commitment drives us to develop innovative products like Enhanced Google Play Protect and collaborate closely with local NGOs, communities, and ecosystem partners. Together, we can build a safer and more secure online space for Filipinos.”
The 3.2 million blocked installs represent a significant intervention in the fight against online fraud. Google’s representatives explained that the blocked apps include various types, from fake lending apps and imitation games to apps designed to mimic legitimate services.
These malicious apps often seek access to sensitive permissions on Android devices, such as reading and writing SMS messages, accessing accessibility features like screen recording, and monitoring notifications – all of which can be exploited for fraudulent purposes.
The company emphasized that the Enhanced Play Protect feature scans apps in real-time, regardless of when they were created. This allows the system to detect even the newest malicious apps as soon as they are distributed.
Google continuing to refine its system
Coach Lyqa with Norman Ng, Google’s APAC’s Head of Trust and Safety Global Engagements
While the initial focus is on financial scams, Google continues to refine the system, learning from each market rollout and incorporating feedback from users and developers. A built-in appeals process allows legitimate developers to address any instances where their apps are mistakenly flagged.
Beyond Enhanced Play Protect, Google is also taking a multi-pronged approach to online safety in the Philippines. The company is actively partnering with local content creators, like EduCreator Coach Lyqa, to produce educational content addressing cybersecurity myths and best practices.
They have also collaborated with artists like Ben&Ben in the past to spread internet safety messages through music. Furthermore, Google is expanding access to its #YOUTHink media literacy publication by releasing an Ilocano version, adding to the existing Filipino, English, and Cebuano editions.
This initiative aims to empower Filipinos across different regions with the knowledge and skills to critically evaluate information and combat misinformation. Earlier this year, Google also partnered with the IBPAP to help upskill the Filipino workforce for the future of the IT-BPM industry.
This collaboration aims to equip Filipino professionals with in-demand digital skills, ensuring the country maintains its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving global IT-BPM landscape.
Taking a multi-pronged approach to online safety
Expanding access to its #YOUTHink media literacy publication by releasing an Ilocano version
With the elections just around the corner, Google also highlighted its work with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to ensure a safe and secure election environment.
According to Gonzales, they have since conducted workshops with political parties and candidates on securing their online accounts and effectively using YouTube while adhering to community guidelines.
The company executive also emphasized their commitment to surfacing authoritative sources and removing or reducing the visibility of content that violates its community guidelines, particularly those related to election misinformation. Google also works closely with the COMELEC to address specific concerns and enforce regulations regarding online content during the elections.
The company acknowledges the evolving nature of cyber threats and is committed to continuous improvement. Through partnerships, educational initiatives, and technological advancements like Enhanced Play Protect, Google aims to equip Filipinos with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the digital world safely and securely.
They stressed the importance of media and information literacy, encouraging everyone from students to seniors to be vigilant and informed about online risks. Google also emphasized the importance of collaboration with government agencies like the CICC and SEC, recognizing that a collective effort is crucial to effectively combat the ever-changing landscape of cybercrime.