Google Reveals Some Features to Protect Android Devices from Theft

Jakarta – Mobile device theft has always been a serious problem for many users. Therefore, Google announced several new protection features for Android devices that are expected to help address this issue.

Some of the features will roll out later this year via a Google Play Services update, reaching billions of devices running Android 10 and later, as reported by GSM Arena. Then, other features will come as part of Android 15.

One of the major steps Google is taking is to make it harder for thieves to reset stolen devices for resale.

With Android's improved factory reset protection, if someone forces a reset on a stolen device, they won't be able to reset it without knowing your device credentials or Google account. This will hopefully render the stolen device useless and reduce the incentive for thieves.

To protect valuable data from thieves looking to retrieve sensitive information or funds from your device, Google launched a feature called Private Space on the second beta version of Android 15.

This feature allows you to create a separate area on your phone that can be hidden and locked with a separate PIN. This provides additional security for apps that contain sensitive data.

Google has also improved authentication protection. Now, to disable Find My Device or extend the screen off time, you must enter a PIN, password, or biometric authentication. 

Biometric authentication is also required to change your PIN, disable theft protection, or access Passkey from an untrusted location.

Auto Detection and Locking Features

Google uses AI to detect if someone is trying to take your phone and run away. If the phone detects common movements associated with theft, the phone screen will lock automatically.

2. Offline Device Lock

If a thief tries to unplug your phone for a long time, the Offline Device Lock feature will automatically lock the screen to protect your data, even when your device is not connected to the network. 

Android will also lock the screen if there are too many failed authentication attempts.

3. Remote Lock

If your phone is stolen, you can lock the screen using just your phone number and a quick security challenge from another device.

This gives you time to recover your account details if you forget them, and access other options in Find My Device, including sending a factory reset command to wipe the device completely.