Here’s how upgraded Android theft protection will work


Google has announced new theft protection features for Android devices to keep your device and data secure before, during, and after a theft attempt. Here’s what they include:

Better protection to prevent theft
  • Factory reset upgrade: Makes it harder for thieves to reset your stolen device and resell it. They won’t be able to set it up again without your device or Google account credentials.
  • Private space: Lets you hide and lock sensitive apps with a separate PIN, providing extra security for apps containing important data like health or financial information.

  • Secure settings changes: Requires your PIN, password, or biometric authentication to disable Find My Device or extend screen timeout, adding an extra layer of security.
  • Enhanced authentication: Requires biometrics to access and change critical Google account and device settings if your PIN is known by a thief.
Automatic Protection
  • Theft Detection Lock: Uses AI to detect suspicious motions associated with theft and automatically locks the screen to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Offline Device Lock: Automatically locks the device screen when a thief attempts to disconnect it for an extended period, even when offline.

Quick Actions After Theft

Remote Lock: Allows users to lock the device remotely using only their phone number and a security challenge, providing time to recover account details and access options like full factory reset through Find My Device.

Availability
  • Factory reset protection updates and private space will come with Android 15, while enhanced authentication will be available on select devices later this year.
  • Theft Detection Lock and Offline Device Lock, alongside with Remote Lock, will be available to Android 10+ devices.

These features will roll out through Google Play Services updates later this year.

Announcing the updates, Suzanne Frey, Vice President of Product, Trust & Growth, said:

Our dedication remains unwavering in safeguarding your device and data on Android. Continuously evolving, we strive to introduce new protections to assist users globally. Anticipate further enhancements in security and privacy features from Android.