Google is adding a powerful new AI-based security feature to Chrome that uses its on-device Gemini Nano model to detect and block tech support scams.
These scams typically display fake virus alerts or full-screen lockouts, trying to convince users to call a number for help. Once victims call, scammers attempt to sell fake support services or gain remote access to their devices.
The new feature, arriving with Chrome version 137 next week, works by analyzing web pages in real time for scam signals. All analysis is done locally using Gemini Nano, and if something suspicious is found, only metadata and the model’s output are sent to Google Safe Browsing for confirmation. If confirmed as malicious, Chrome warns the user before any harm occurs.
Google says this AI-powered protection is designed to run quietly in the background without slowing down the browser. It will be enabled by default for users who have ‘Enhanced Protection’ turned on in Chrome’s Safe Browsing settings.
The company also confirmed that the feature will expand to detect other scams, such as fake delivery notices, in future releases. Chrome for Android will get the same protection sometime in 2025. This update follows a similar move by Microsoft, which added AI-based scam detection in Edge earlier this year.
To enable this feature, users can go to: Chrome Settings > Privacy and Security > Security > Enhanced Protection.
