Google Philippines introduced new artificial intelligence (AI) tools and safety tips during Safer Internet Day 2026 to help Filipinos avoid scams, spot fake content, and protect their devices.
Speaking at the event, Mervin Wenke, head of Communications and Public Affairs of Google Philippines, discussed how AI can support users as more people rely on the internet for work, school, and daily life. The campaign carries the theme “Sa Internet, Ingat!”
To help users check online information, Google promotes the “SIFT” method: Stop, Investigate the source, Find better coverage, and Trace claims. It also offers “About this Image,” a search feature that shows where a photo first appeared online. Another tool, SynthID, places digital watermarks on AI-generated images to help people identify edited or fake content.
To fight scams, Google enhanced Google Lens and Circle to Search. Users who receive a suspicious message can take a screenshot and scan it using Google Lens, or circle the text on their Android device. Google’s AI analyzes the content in real time and warns users if it may be a scam.
For lost or stolen phones, Android devices now have Theft Detection Lock, which uses on-device AI to detect sudden movements linked to theft and automatically lock the screen. Other features include Biometric Identity Check and Failed Authentication Lock, which secure the phone after repeated wrong login attempts.
For families, Google Family Link allows parents to manage screen time and app downloads. The Be Internet Awesome program provides learning materials on responsible internet use. Parents can also set limits on YouTube Shorts viewing time.
Google is also promoting Guided Learning in Gemini, which encourages students to solve problems step by step instead of simply getting quick answers.