Google confirms fix for Messages bug that sent old texts to wrong recipients
Google has confirmed a fix for a Google Messages bug that caused old texts to surface in unrelated chats and sometimes reach the wrong recipients, especially after switching to a new device.
A Google spokesperson told Android Authority: “We’re aware of an issue affecting some Google Messages users when transferring to a new device. We’re currently rolling out a fix that will reach everyone over the coming weeks.”
In recent weeks, reports from Pixel and Samsung phone owners described old messages being pulled from completely different conversations and attached to new messages or images. Some users said those messages were actually delivered to unintended recipients. The reports raised privacy concerns, especially when the resurfaced content included sensitive conversations, verification codes, or personal information. Google did not disclose the exact cause or the affected app versions, but its statement identifies transferring messages to a new device as the trigger.
The statement also suggests that some workarounds shared by users, such as factory-resetting a phone and setting it up without restoring old messages, may no longer be necessary. For now, affected users should install the latest version of Google Messages from the Play Store, since the update may include the fix. If the problem persists, the report advises against sending sensitive messages until the fix is fully received.