Efforts to tackle scams in the Asia Pacific region are being strengthened through a combination of built-in protections, local partnerships, and educational initiatives. With the rise of complex scams in the region, new Android protections, industry collaborations, and community training are being scaled up. These measures include AI-enhanced call detection, sharing of threat intelligence, and a funding initiative worth $6 million aimed at safeguarding individuals and small businesses from online threats. More information about these initiatives and scam prevention resources is available through the latest updates on the Google Safety Center.
Steps have been taken to bolster defenses against sophisticated scams throughout the Asia Pacific region. The latest Android updates can now detect calls impersonated by AI and will alert users to any suspicious messages. In partnership with various industry stakeholders, Google is facilitating the exchange of threat intelligence and providing $6 million in funding to support local organizations. These actions are designed to help individuals, small businesses, and communities recognize fraud, stay protected online, and develop resilience against organized crime.
The complexity of scams has increased due to the advanced tactics employed by transnational crime groups. A recent UN report highlighted the impact of these scams across the Asia Pacific region, noting that by 2025, scam-related losses in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand could reach $114.1 billion USD. Additionally, more than 40% of consumers in ASEAN are reported to be experiencing scams.
To effectively combat these organized networks, a unified approach is essential. Google’s strategy to protect communities in the Asia Pacific includes integrated protections across products and platforms, collaboration within the industry, and new partnerships at the local level to enhance community resilience.
The initial step involves securing the devices and platforms used daily by people. This year, Android introduced Fake Call Detection, a feature that identifies phone call impersonation driven by AI. This protection, developed on open RCS technology, can be adopted by other platforms. For Pixel users, built-in scam detection alerts are available for many popular messaging apps, and efforts are underway to extend this feature to more Android users. Additionally, Android developer verification is being expanded to safeguard against malicious apps, irrespective of the distribution platform.
Beyond product solutions, dismantling fraud networks requires coordination among experts and industries. Earlier this year, Google joined industry peers in signing the Industry Accord Against Online Scams and Fraud to foster collaboration in threat intelligence sharing and defense coordination. Building on this accord, Google played a role in establishing the Japan Anti-Scam Alliance (JASA), which mobilizes public and private institutions to implement coordinated defenses.
Google.org has also been instrumental in the launch of the Global Anti-Scams Philanthropy Collaborative, which aims to coordinate philanthropic efforts against scams on a global scale.
At the community level, Google.org has announced a $6 million fund for The Asia Foundation and the Tech for Good Institute. This funding will assist small businesses and individuals in APAC with staying safe online. The initiative will include training for local communities on developing scam resilience, the incubation of AI-powered defense prototypes, and the equipping of policymakers with insights to strengthen threat measures.
This initiative builds on Google.org’s ongoing support for local groups, such as Bamboo Builders in Singapore and the Taiwan FactCheck Center, to deliver targeted, localized training to citizens. It also expands upon the ASEAN Foundation’s Scam Ready ASEAN initiative, which is bringing online scam prevention tools to millions in the region. Additionally, the educational game ‘Be Scam Ready,’ which simulates common scams to educate citizens, is being expanded to Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. This game is already available in Singapore, Thailand, and Taiwan.
Ensuring that communities stay one step ahead of organized fraud is a core element of Google’s mission, and the company continues to promote a collaborative, global approach to this challenge.