Google updates security while German postage and tax deadlines impact users

Google is updating Google Messages with enhanced security features to combat scam messages. A new beta version introduces three levels of protection: Enhanced Protection, which uses Private AI Compute to analyze suspicious links via an encrypted cloud connection; Standard Protection, which maintains existing spam filters; and No Protection, which includes a warning for users.

In Germany, the Bundesnetzagentur has proposed a postage price increase for mail services. If approved, standard letters and postcards could see an average price hike of approximately 20% starting in January 2027, potentially bringing the cost of a standard letter to over 1.14 euros.

Additionally, German taxpayers are reminded of the four critical deadlines for income tax advance payments. To avoid late fees, individuals—including freelancers, business owners, and certain employees—must ensure payments are made on March 10, June 10, September 10, and December 10.