Google has released an Android app that fights texting scams

As our interactions move more and more into the digital environment, it’s become essential to be able to make sure we’re talking to the right people.

In a world where online accounts can be compromised, strangers posing as our relatives or friends are a real threat.

To combat this problem, Google released an app called Android System Key Verifier.

How it works

This has two components: secure end-to-end encryption key storage and contact identity verification via QR codes.

The first allows messaging apps to securely store users’ end-to-end encryption keys for additional protection of conversations.

The second component allows them to verify the identity of contacts by exchanging QR codes.

Steps to follow

When you add a new contact, both parties will be able to scan each other’s QR codes to pair the devices.

Scanning the code by each party ensures a unique association between devices.

If there is any doubt about the identity of the person in the conversation, the user can request a new scan of the code.

If the person uses another device, the keys will not match, signaling the possibility of a security threat.

Integration into applications

Although Android System Key Verifier is currently a standalone app, there are hints that Google may integrate this functionality into apps like Google Messages.

Fighting scams

When a hacker takes over the account of one of our contacts, they can send messages in that person’s name, misleading us.

The method is used to manipulate the victim’s friends or family, obtaining sensitive information or even money.

By verifying the identity of the contacts, we can be sure that we are talking to the right people, thus preventing the theft of personal data or other types of fraud.

A new era of secure digital communication

Many accounts are hijacked by malicious people who try to scam victims’ friends or family with seemingly legitimate messages.

The Android System Key Verifier app comes to eliminate this risk because it allows users to check whether the person they are communicating with is really who they claim to be or not.

This works on devices running Android 10 or later.

Source: Android Police