Google recently released the Android 16 operating system and it has a host of useful tools that help to keep users safe and secure. It could be a game changer for operators in the iGaming industry, who must prioritise data protection across their sports betting and casino platforms. Google’s latest operating system has an impressive line-up of security tools that will give bettors peace of mind when they are making online transactions.
The update will be welcomed with open arms in Australia, where betting is hugely popular. Reputable bet apps in Australia have security protocols, but Android 16 takes things up a notch. For bettors who frequently deal with payment gateways, identification verifications, and real-time data transfers, this update could not have come at a better time.
Advanced Protection Against Phone & Text Scams
A phone call is a common tactic used by scammers. They pose as legitimate agents from betting sites or other organizations, hoping to acquire sensitive information. Scammers conjure up fake situations that could trick you into making catastrophic decisions, such as downloading a suspicious betting app. They may ask you to change a setting on your device or screen share sensitive information. These actions can give a scammer deep access to your device and data.
This is where Android 16 comes in. The operating system can help to close the loophole with its new in-call protections. Android 16 blocks risky actions such as disabling Google Play Protect or granting accessibility permissions. The system will also warn you of these sophisticated attempts. This only happens when you are having a conversation with a contact that is not saved on your digital device.
That means you will not be interrupted when talking to your regular bookmaker or customer service representative if you have the number saved. Scammers are also becoming increasingly sophisticated with their text-based antics. They use cleverly disguised texts that look like exclusive promotions. However, Android 16 comes with an advanced Scam Detection tool in Google Messages. Rather than picking up trigger words or links, artificial intelligence (AI) studies the flow of the conversation.
If it follows a pattern that’s commonly associated with scams, the AI tool flags the conversation. It is designed to raise an alarm before you click a harmful link or share any sensitive information. While all this is going on in the background, Android 16 makes sure your data remains private. For bettors who are subscribed to promotional texts or receive verification codes to access their betting apps, Scam Detection makes sure you are protected.
Advanced Protection for Bank Transactions & Physical Theft
Banking and online betting cannot be separated. Providing secure banking operations is non-negotiable, whether bettors are topping up their accounts or withdrawing their winnings. But what happens when someone tries to walk you through that process while watching your screen? Android 16 comes with a new feature that recognises when you open your banking app while sharing your screen during a phone call. If you are doing that with an unknown contact, Android 16 will warn you about the potential dangers and give you the option to end the call and stop sharing your screen with a single tap.
This is the kind of real-time intervention that will help bettors keep their money safe, although this particular feature is only available in the United Kingdom for now. Google is working with Monzo, NatWest, and Revolut to pilot this feature for their customers and will assess the results before rolling it out in other regions. If you are the kind of bettor who is always on the road, you also have to worry about your device being stolen. Thankfully, Android 16 has theft protection features.
Given the importance of banking and payment information, it is imperative that the thief does not get into your phone. Android 16 has theft protection features to protect you before, during, and after a theft. This includes locking a device by Remote Lock or Theft Detection Lock for over 48 hours.
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