Google has announced a significant update to its interactive search tools to enhance user security. The company has added new scam detection capabilities to both Circle to Search and Google Lens.
These updates aim to help users identify fraudulent messages across various platforms. Users can now analyse suspicious texts, app messages, and social media content directly through these features.
Google has provided clear methods for accessing the new functionality on different devices.
To use the feature with Circle to Search, users must long-press the home button or navigation bar on their Android device. They can then circle the specific text they want to check for potential fraud.
For Google Lens on both Android and iOS devices, the process involves taking a screenshot of the questionable message. Users then open the Google app, access Lens, and tap on the saved screenshot to initiate the analysis.
To help you spot scams in texts, messaging apps and more, we’ve now added new capabilities to Circle to Search and Lens that will help you understand if a message is fraudulent.
To use this with Circle to Search: Long press the home button or navigation bar of your Android… pic.twitter.com/lWrEn4PL0c
— Google (@Google) December 2, 2025Once a user submits text through either method, Google’s systems will employ artificial intelligence to assess the content. The AI cross-references the message against web information to evaluate its legitimacy.
In a message on the social media platform X, Google confirmed the process. The company stated the systems will “use AI and information from the web to assess whether the message is likely a scam.”
Read: Google Gemini’s Circle Screen: A Faster Way to Search Without Screenshots
Following the analysis, users receive an overview with guidance and insights. This report includes suggested next steps if the system indicates a high likelihood of fraudulent activity.
The integration of these tools provides a proactive layer of defence against common digital threats, such as phishing attempts and financial scams embedded in seemingly legitimate messages.
