Google DeepMind and singapore launch AI tool to combat scams

Google DeepMind and the Singapore Government have unveiled an AI tool designed to detect scams on users' devices, enhancing cybersecurity without compromising privacy. Scams account for over half of Singapore’s reported crimes and have caused more than S$4 billion in losses since 2019. The tool, developed as part of a National AI Partnership, uses a lightweight model fine-tuned on local scam data, including impersonations of public institutions and regional schemes. It runs on-device, allowing real-time detection of manipulative conversations and issuing warnings to users. The model addresses the challenge of end-to-end encryption by analyzing patterns locally, ensuring privacy while protecting users from fraud. The project was presented at Singapore International Cyber Week 2026 and adheres to strict governance, including data anonymization and secure training environments. Messaging platforms and OS vendors can integrate these models to safeguard users without exposing private data.