Google has prevented more than 3.2 million high-risk app install attempts in the Philippines through its Enhanced Google Play Protect security feature. The move aims to protect Android users from potential cyber threats, particularly from sideloaded apps — those downloaded from sources outside the Google Play Store.
Sideloaded apps often disguise themselves as loan services or reward-based games, tricking users into installing them. Once installed, they can steal personal information or financial data. Google’s real-time scanning feature now helps detect and block such threats before they cause harm.
“By scanning apps in real-time, we help prevent malicious software from reaching people’s devices,” said Yves Gonzalez, head of Google Philippines’ Government Affairs and Public Policy, during the launch coinciding with the Safer Internet Day.
The feature has already improved security for Android users in India, Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, and now the Philippines.
Alongside this security effort, Google continues to promote online safety through partnerships with content creators. This year, it collaborated with EduCreator Coach Lyqa to debunk cybersecurity myths in a YouTube video. In previous years, it worked with the band Ben&Ben to promote internet safety through music.
Google is also working on improving digital literacy. Its #YOUTHink media literacy publication, designed to help Filipinos identify misinformation, is now available in Ilocano, expanding its reach beyond its existing versions in Filipino, English, and Cebuano.