For this year’s Safer Internet Day, Google is rolling out Enhanced Google Play Protect in the Philippines to protect more Filipinos from financial fraud and scams.
During the launch at Google Philippines Headquarters yesterday (February 10), Southeast Asia Government Affairs and Public Policy Yves Gonzales shared that Enhanced Google Play Protect has blocked over 3.2 million high-risk install attempts in the Philippines–with the majority of these apps involved in financial frauds and scams that are disguised as seemingly harmless quick loan apps or instant reward games, these malicious apps frequently steal personal data or funds.
Enhanced Google Play Protect offers real-time scanning to better safeguard people against the dangers of sideloaded apps, and is designed to detect malicious apps employing sophisticated techniques including AI-driven evasion methods. This has rolled out in India, Thailand, Singapore, and Brazil, and the Philippines is the latest to have this feature.
“Online safety is crucial in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. This innovation automatically blocks the installation of potentially harmful apps from unofficial sources. By working together, we can build a stronger foundation for internet safety in the country,” SEC Chair Emilio Benito Aquino said.
Aside from launching 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.
“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,” Google Thailand and Philippines Country Director Jackie Wang said.
