Google is rolling out a new Chrome security feature that employs the built-in ‘Gemini Nano’ large-language model (LLM) to detect and block tech support scams during web browsing. Tech support scams involve malicious websites that deceive users into believing their computer is infected or has other issues. These sites often display full-screen browser alerts or additional pop-ups that are hard to close. The scammers aim to persuade victims to call a provided number, either to sell unnecessary remote support subscriptions or to gain remote access to devices, potentially resulting in financial loss or data theft. Chrome 126 introduces AI features directly within the browser to offer faster, privacy-focused assistance. Chrome’s new anti-scam system, integrated into the browser’s ‘Enhanced Protection, ’ analyzes web pages locally and in real time to identify scam indicators such as fake virus warnings or full-screen lockouts—typical signs of tech support scams. This detection runs offline on the user's device using Gemini Nano.

When a potential scam is detected, the system sends the LLM output along with site metadata to Google Safe Browsing for further assessment. If malicious intent is confirmed, Chrome will warn the user with a clear risk notification. Google assures the feature maintains user privacy and causes only minimal performance impact, although specific details were limited in the announcement. “This is all done in a way that preserves performance and privacy, ” Google said. “To ensure the LLM runs sparingly and locally, we carefully manage resource use by limiting tokens, running processes asynchronously to avoid disrupting browser activity, and applying throttling and quotas to control GPU utilization. ” This AI-driven protection will be introduced with Chrome 137, set for release next week, and will be enabled by default for users who upgrade and opt into ‘Enhanced Protection’ in Safe Browsing settings. To enable it, go to Chrome Settings > Privacy and Security > Security > Enhanced Protection. Google also plans to enhance this system in future updates to detect additional scams, such as fake package delivery or toll notices. The feature will arrive on Chrome for Android sometime in 2025.