Google Chrome is testing a new artificial intelligence tool that detects scams to protect you from online fraud.

Google Chrome is testing a new AI-driven scam detection tool aimed at helping users avoid online cons. This feature, currently in testing, appears to utilize a large language model (LLM) that operates directly on the device, ensuring that users' privacy remains intact.

The existence of this new feature was revealed by a user on X, who identified an option called ‘Client-Side Detection Brand and Intent for Scam Detection’ in the latest version of Chrome's experimental browser known as Canary. This option allows the browser to examine the content of web pages and determine if their intent and purpose are legitimate.

The key aspect of this approach is that the language model operates locally on the device, eliminating the need to send browsing data to the cloud, which helps protect users' personal information. To test this new feature, users need to install the latest version of Google Chrome Canary; however, it is not recommended for everyone, especially for those who are not developers or are not interested in experimental features.

This tool is part of a series of AI-driven innovations being implemented in Chrome. Another feature under testing is a ‘Store reviews’ function, which uses AI to summarize reviews from platforms like Trustpilot or ScamAdvisor, helping users quickly assess the reliability of online stores.

While it remains to be seen whether these testing features will be permanently implemented, it is likely that they will, as Google is committed to enhancing the AI capabilities of its browser. Given the increasing sophistication of scammers using AI tools, the introduction of a scam warning system is a positive step towards protecting Chrome users.