India, June 17 -- As internet fraud has accelerated globally, and specifically in India, Google has announced a comprehensive security initiative in India anchored by a new AI-led Safety Charter and introduction of a security-engineering hub in Bengaluru (the first in Asia and its fourth in the globe).

The initiative arrives with the exponential growth of online fraud, particularly scams based on the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and impersonation through video calls. According to recent estimates, UPI-related scam cases surged by 85% in FY 2022-23, leading to estimated financial damages of over Rs.11,000 crore (US$127 million).

The new Safety Charter identifies a series of commitments made by Google to bolster digital safety in Ind...