Technology
Samsung Messages ending? What Android owners must know
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
You may be hearing that Samsung Messages is going away, and for many Android users, that’s true. Samsung is quietly phasing out its Samsung Messages app and moving people to Google Messages as the default texting platform with a planned cutoff around July 2026 in the U.S.
Newer Galaxy phones already come with Google Messages preinstalled, and Samsung Messages is no longer available to download on many newer devices.
That shift is real. But the way people are finding out about it is causing confusion. For many people, it starts with a text that doesn’t feel quite right. They’re checking their phone, and suddenly a text pops up warning that their messaging app is going away.
That’s exactly what happened to Gilberto of Running Springs, California. He wrote to us saying, “I just received a text on my Android phone advising me that Samsung Messages was going to end on July 6th, 2026, and that I needed to change to Google Messages. Is that true or a scam? I am a fan and enjoy your newsletter.”
MICROSOFT ‘IMPORTANT MAIL’ EMAIL IS A SCAM: HOW TO SPOT IT
Gilberto is not alone. A growing number of Android owners are seeing similar alerts, and they’re leaving people unsure what’s real and what’s a scam. Here’s what’s real, based on Samsung and Google’s latest moves.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com, trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Scam texts like this use urgency and official-looking language to trick you into clicking dangerous links. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What’s actually happening with Samsung Messages
Samsung says Samsung Messages will be discontinued and is pushing people to switch to Google Messages. Google Messages is already the default texting app on many Galaxy phones.
Here’s what we know right now:
- Newer Samsung Galaxy devices already ship with Google Messages as the default
- Samsung Messages is still available on many older phones, but it is no longer the focus
- Samsung says the app is expected to be discontinued in July 2026 for customers in the United States and advises checking the Samsung Messages app for the exact shutdown date
- Some Galaxy phones may show an in-app notification guiding you to switch to Google Messages
- Owners of newer Galaxy devices already cannot download Samsung Messages, and all devices will lose access to download it after the July 2026 cutoff
Samsung has not made a dramatic shutdown announcement inside settings or via official alerts. Instead, this is more of a phased shift tied to Google’s push for RCS messaging.
Why Samsung is moving to Google Messages
This change is not random. It’s about standardizing how texting works across Android.
Google has been pushing RCS, which stands for rich communication services. Think of it as the Android version of iMessage.
With Google Messages, you get:
- Read receipts and typing indicators
- High-quality photo and video sharing
- Better group chats
- Spam protection powered by Google
- Access to newer Google features, including AI tools powered by Gemini, like suggested replies and experimental features such as image generation inside chats
- Built-in security improvements, including AI-powered scam detection and stronger spam filtering to help block suspicious messages
Samsung has decided it makes more sense to partner with Google rather than maintain a separate messaging platform.
TAX SEASON SCAMS 2026: FAKE IRS MESSAGES STEALING IDENTITIES
As Samsung shifts to Google Messages, many people are receiving confusing alerts that can be easy to misinterpret. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
So is that text message real or a scam?
Here’s where things get tricky.
- The change itself is real
- The text message Gilberto received may not be
Samsung does not typically send standalone text messages with links asking you to switch apps. That creates a perfect opening for scammers.
How to tell if the message is legit
Here’s what to look for:
Signs the message could be legitimate
- You see a notification inside your phone’s system settings
- The alert appears within your existing messaging app
- Links go directly to official sources like Google Play
Red flags that point to a scam
- A random text with a link
- Messages that pressure you to act quickly
- Requests for login details or payment
- Strange sender numbers or email-style addresses
Scammers know people are already hearing about this change, and they’re using that confusion to make their messages look real.
Taking a moment to verify a message before tapping can protect your data, your money and your identity. (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
What you should do right now
You don’t need to panic. You just need to take control of the process.
1) Ignore the link
Even if the message looks convincing, do not tap anything inside it. It could take you to a fake site designed to steal your information. It’s also smart to have strong antivirus software on your phone, which can help block malicious links and warn you about suspicious activity before any damage is done. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
2) Check your phone manually
Open the Google Play Store and search for Google Messages. If it is already installed, you are ahead of the game. If you’re using a newer Galaxy phone, you may already have Google Messages as your default and may not see Samsung Messages at all.
3) Switch in a safe way
Open Google Messages. If it is not already installed, download it from the Google Play Store. When you open it, tap “Set default SMS app,” select Google Messages, then confirm “Set as default.”
If you do not see that prompt, go to Settings > Apps > Choose default apps > SMS app (this may appear as “Default apps” on some devices), then select Google Messages.
4) Your existing texts should appear in Google Messages
When you switch your default messaging app, your SMS and MMS message history should automatically appear inside Google Messages. Google and Samsung both indicate that existing conversations transfer during the switch. In most cases, that means you will keep your existing text messages and won’t lose your conversation history when you switch apps. It is still a good idea to open Google Messages after switching and confirm your threads are there before removing or disabling Samsung Messages.
5) Reduce your exposure online
Scammers don’t just guess your number. They often get it from data broker sites and other places where your personal information is already floating around online. That’s why it’s smart to use a data removal service, which can help remove your phone number and personal details from these sites. The less information that’s out there, the harder it is for scammers to target you with texts like this in the first place. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com.
What Samsung and Google are not telling you clearly
Here’s the part that frustrates many people. This transition is not being communicated in a consistent or highly visible way. Some Galaxy phones may show notices inside Samsung Messages or system prompts, but there is no single, universal alert reaching everyone at once. Instead, it’s a gradual shift tied to device updates, software versions and Google’s messaging strategy. That uneven rollout is exactly what creates confusion and gives scam texts an opening.
Who may not be affected?
Some older Samsung phones may continue to use Samsung Messages for now, especially if they are no longer receiving major software updates.
However, Samsung has not given a clear cutoff for the Android version, so the timeline can vary depending on your specific device, carrier and region.
You can check your Android version by going to Settings > About phone > Software information > Android version.
Why this matters for you
This is bigger than just switching apps.
It highlights a growing pattern:
- Real tech changes create confusion
- Scammers jump in immediately
- People get caught in the middle
Right now, this change applies to U.S. customers, and timing may vary elsewhere. That kind of uncertainty is exactly what scammers look for, which is why it’s critical to verify any message before you act. Don’t want to use Google Messages? Here are your options
We’re hearing from readers who don’t trust Google and aren’t sure what to do, especially if family members use iPhones.
Here’s the reality:
- Use Google Messages (default option): Works with everyone, including iPhones. No one else has to change anything
- Use Signal for privacy: More secure, but only works if your contacts also use it
- Apps like WhatsApp or Telegram: Both sides need the app
Best practical setup: Use Google Messages for everyday texting and Signal for private conversations.
Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?
Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: CyberGuy.com.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Kurt’s key takeaways
Gilberto’s instinct to question that message was the right move. The switch to Google Messages is real, but the text he received might not be. When tech companies make quiet changes, scammers step in fast. The safest move is simple. Ignore unexpected links, verify everything yourself and make the switch on your terms, not theirs.
Should Big Tech companies be doing more to clearly warn you about major changes like this before scammers step in and fill the gap? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
SpaceX and Cursor are now working closely together to create the world’s best coding and knowledge work AI.
The combination of Cursor’s leading product and distribution to expert software engineers with SpaceX’s million H100 equivalent Colossus training supercomputer will allow us to build the world’s most useful models.
Cursor has also given SpaceX the right to acquire Cursor later this year for $60 billion or pay $10 billion for our work together.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
If you’ve ever clicked “Check for updates” and trusted what you saw, you’re not alone. That’s exactly what this latest scam is counting on.
The page mimics official branding, includes a believable knowledge base number and presents a big blue download button that feels familiar.
The catch? The download installs malware designed to steal passwords, payment details and account access.
According to researchers at Malwarebytes Labs, a cybersecurity research and threat intelligence team inside Malwarebytes, the site uses a typosquatted domain that looks close enough to a real Microsoft URL to fool a quick glance. That small trick is often all it takes.
APPLE APP PASSWORD SCAM EMAIL WARNING
Cybersecurity researchers warn a fake Microsoft update site uses a look-alike URL and a familiar download button to deliver data-stealing malware. (Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Why this fake Windows update malware slips past detection
At first glance, nothing seems off. The file looks like a standard Windows installer. It even lists “Microsoft” in its properties. That’s where this attack gets clever. Instead of using obvious malicious code, the attackers built the installer with legitimate tools and layered the attack in stages. Each piece looks harmless on its own.
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:
- The installer launches what appears to be a normal app
- That app quietly runs hidden scripts
- A disguised process loads a full Python environment
- Data theft tools activate in the background
Because each step looks routine, many security tools fail to flag it right away. Researchers also noted that antivirus engines initially showed zero detections for key parts of the attack. That does not mean the file is safe. It means the malicious behavior is well hidden.
What this fake Windows update malware is stealing
Once installed, the malware gets to work fast. It collects details about the infected device, including location and IP address. Then it reaches out to remote servers to receive instructions and upload stolen data.
The targets include:
- Saved browser passwords
- Login sessions and cookies
- Payment details
- Discord account tokens
It even tries to shut down other processes on your system to avoid interference while it works. In some cases, it modifies apps like Discord to intercept account activity in real time.
How the fake Windows update malware stays on your system
This malware is designed to stick around. It creates entries that look like normal system processes, so they blend in. One registry entry mimics Windows Security Health, which most users would ignore. It also drops a shortcut in your startup folder with a familiar name like Spotify. That makes it easy to overlook. Two different persistence tricks mean it can survive a reboot and keep running.
FAKE WINDOWS UPDATE PUSHES MALWARE IN NEW CLICKFIX ATTACK
A fake Windows update page is tricking users into downloading malware that steals passwords, payment details and account access. (Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto)
Why this fake Windows update scam feels so real
There’s a bigger trend behind this. Researchers say campaigns like this often target regions where large data breaches have already exposed personal information. When attackers already know your name, provider or habits, they can build scams that feel tailored to you. That makes a fake Windows update page far more believable than a generic phishing email.
It also highlights something important. Today’s malware often hides inside legitimate tools and trusted frameworks. That makes it harder to detect and easier to trust. This campaign shows how far scammers have come. They are no longer relying on sloppy emails or obvious fake links. Instead, they are building layered attacks that look and behave like trusted software.
Even experienced users can get caught off guard when everything appears normal. The biggest takeaway is simple. A clean scan result or a familiar interface does not guarantee safety.
Microsoft says it’s aware of the threat
Microsoft confirmed it is tracking this type of activity and urges users to be cautious when downloading updates from unfamiliar sources.
“We are aware of reports of fraudulent websites impersonating Microsoft, and we actively work to detect and disrupt malicious activity across the internet,” A Microsoft spokesperson told CyberGuy. “We encourage customers to be cautious of unexpected prompts or downloads and to verify that they are interacting with legitimate Microsoft domains. As a best practice, we recommend users verify the legitimacy of a link by going directly to our website from your own saved favorite, from a web search, or by typing the domain name yourself.”
For more guidance on how to protect against online phishing scams, you can refer to Microsoft’s official support page at support.microsoft.com.
MICROSOFT CROSSES PRIVACY LINE FEW EXPECTED
A convincing Windows update scam is spreading malware that can grab saved passwords, cookies, payment data and Discord tokens. (Todor Tsvetkov/Getty Images)
Ways to stay safe from fake Windows update malware
You don’t need to be a security expert to avoid this. A few habits make a big difference.
1) Only update Windows from your settings
Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates there. Avoid downloading updates from websites.
2) Double-check the URL
Real Microsoft pages use microsoft.com. Anything else, even if it looks close, should raise a red flag.
3) Be cautious with urgent update prompts
If a site or message pressures you to install an update, stop and verify it manually.
4) Use strong antivirus software with behavior detection
Traditional antivirus software, which often comes built into your device or as basic security software, mainly looks for known threats using signature matching, which means it can miss new or well-hidden attacks like this one. Strong antivirus software uses behavior detection to monitor what programs are doing in real time, helping flag suspicious activity even if the malware hasn’t been seen before. Get my picks for the best 2026 antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android & iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
5) Use a data removal service to limit your exposure
If your personal information is already circulating online from past breaches, it can make scams like this more convincing. A data removal service helps reduce how much of your information is publicly available, making it harder for attackers to target you with tailored phishing attempts. Check out my top picks for data removal services and get a free scan to find out if your personal information is already out on the web by visiting Cyberguy.com
6) Turn on two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second layer of protection if your passwords are stolen.
7) Avoid downloading installer files from unknown sites
Legitimate updates rarely require manual downloads.
Kurt’s key takeaways
Fake updates are one of the most effective tricks because they tap into something we all trust. Keeping your system secure should not put you at risk, yet that’s exactly what attackers are exploiting here. The safest move is to slow down, verify where updates come from and stick to built-in tools whenever possible.
Are tech companies doing enough to keep fake updates from putting your data at risk? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
- Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
- For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com – trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
- Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.
Copyright 2026 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
We get a lot of questions about how The Verge works. And how The Vergecast works. And how we make money. And whether some of that money helps Nilay buy more jackets, several yachts, or something else entirely. So, every once in a while, we spend an episode of the podcast answering as many questions as we can.
On this episode of The Vergecast, Nilay and David are joined by The Verge’s publisher, Helen Havlak, to talk about ads, subscriptions, our website, our audience, and more. Then, Nilay and David answer some more questions about how we think about journalism, our relationship with Verge alumni, video podcasts, and (of course) Brendan Carr.
Thanks to everyone who sent us questions for this episode, and please keep them coming! You can always call the Vergecast Hotline (866-VERGE11) or send us an email (vergecast@theverge.com) with your questions, thoughts, feelings, and misgivings about everything we’re up to. We truly love hearing from you. And if you want to be part of everything we’re up to, and help make The Verge even bigger and better, the best thing you can do is subscribe! You even get all our podcasts ad-free.
Oh, and also, in case you missed it yesterday, be sure and check out our emergency pod on the news that Tim Cook is stepping down as Apple CEO. We’ll be talking more about the future of Apple on Friday’s show, too, so send questions if you have ’em!
-
New York1 hour agoTrump’s Immigration Crackdown Pervades Long Island Suburbs
-
Detroit, MI2 hours agoChris Simms projects Detroit Lions first-round NFL draft pick
-
San Francisco, CA2 hours agoSan Francisco sets $3.4B price tag for public takeover of PG&E
-
Dallas, TX2 hours agoGame Day Guide: Stars at Wild | Dallas Stars
-
Miami, FL2 hours agoMay a steadying presence as Cards hold off Marlins in Miami
-
Boston, MA2 hours agoTyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe flex in Boston: Takeaways from Celtics-76ers Game 2
-
Denver, CO2 hours agoMotorcyclist seriously injured in Denver hit-and-run crash – AOL
-
Seattle, WA3 hours agoBrock: 2 drafts fits at edge rusher for Seattle Seahawks