Every day, thousands of Filipinos fall victim to scams, whether it’s through calls that ask for their bank’s OTP to malicious links posed as enticing giveaways, or apps that steal personal data or funds. When was the last time you changed passwords for your accounts or set up a two-step verification? Fortunately, Google has a lineup of products that help protect users against online scams and the like. Know more about them here:

Passkeys

There’s no need to type discreetly, especially in a public space, when you’ve activated Google’s Passkeys for your accounts. Instead of using a password, Passkeys are a more secure and easier alternative when signing in. You can use your screen lock, face scan, or fingerprint – it’s basically your biometric data, which ensures that it’s really you who’s signing in to your account.

Set up your Passkey here.

Chrome Safe Browsing

Whether you’re using Google Chrome, Gmail, or Google Search, Chrome Safe Browsing warns you about malware or phishing attacks. An example is when you’re opening emails. There’s no need to go through them individually – emails that have suspicious links and senders are automatically labeled as spam. Google also sends warnings if users click on them.

Always be vigilant and double-check senders and files before you download them!

Enhanced Google Play Protect

To help protect people from online scams, Google at Safer Internet Day announced a new feature for Android devices: Enhanced Google Play Protect.

This enhanced security feature offers real-time scanning to better safeguard people against the dangers of sideloaded apps. Designed to detect malicious apps employing sophisticated techniques, including AI-driven evasion methods, this feature has already demonstrated significant improvements in user safety in India, Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, and now, the Philippines.

As of February 10, Enhanced Google Play Protect has blocked over 3.2 million high-risk app install attempts in the Philippines, preventing potentially devastating financial losses. To illustrate the impact, that’s the equivalent of ₱3.2 million saved, assuming a single peso loss per blocked install.

“Online safety is crucial in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. 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,” said Emilio Benito Aquino, Chairperson and CEO of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The power of local partnerships to create a safer internet

In addition to Enhanced Google Play Protect, Google has also teamed up with various content creators to promote online safety. This year, it tapped EduCreator Coach Lyqa for a new YouTube video debunking various cybersecurity myths, while in previous years it had partnered with the likes of Ben&Ben to help spread the message of internet safety through a song.

Google is also expanding access to its #YOUTHink media literacy publication by releasing an Ilocano-language version. This inclusive initiative, designed to teach people how to fight misinformation, aims to reach more Filipinos across different regions. #YOUTHink is also currently available in Filipino, English, and Cebuano.

“Google is deeply committed to digital responsibility and internet safety,” says 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.”

To learn more about how Google keeps you safer online, visit Safer with Google.

This is a press release. Minor edits have been made by the 8List.ph editorial team.

Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube, to be the first to know about the latest news and coolest trends!