Google unveils advanced features to protect Android users worldwide from phone theft

Google has introduced a comprehensive suite of security features to protect Android users from phone theft and protect their data.

These improvements, which leverage advanced technologies such as AI and biometric authentication, are now available globally on Android 15 and Android 10+ devices via a Google Play Services update.

The cornerstone of these security updates is Theft Detection Lock, an AI-powered feature designed to keep your device safe in the event of theft.

This feature uses on-device machine learning to analyze signals such as suspicious actions and automatically locks the screen if a theft attempt is detected.

How the features work

Google said this feature will be rolled out gradually and will initially include Android devices used by 90% of active users worldwide. Users can check their theft protection settings to see if their device is supported.

According to Google, the Offline Device Lock is activated when a thief takes the phone offline to bypass remote wiping or tracking.

The device automatically locks the screen during extended offline periods, preventing unauthorized access.

Remote Lock allows users to quickly secure their device from any internet-connected device. Even without Google Account information, users can lock their phones by going to Android.com/lock and entering a verified phone number.

This feature integrates with Find My Device, allowing users to locate, secure, or remotely wipe their devices.

Google also emphasizes the importance of regularly backing up data to minimize loss during remote wipes.

Enhanced security for preventative measures

Google said sensitive settings like Find My Device now require authentication via PIN, password or biometrics.

Multiple failed login attempts cause a device lockout, thwarting attempts to guess passwords.
Factory Reset Protection makes it harder for thieves to reset a stolen device without the original Google Account credentials, significantly reducing its trade-in value.

Google plans to launch an additional feature, Identity Check, later this year. This opt-in tool requires biometric authentication to access critical settings, providing an extra layer of protection even if a thief compromises the device’s PIN.

What you need to know

Phone theft remains a pressing problem in many regions, including sub-Saharan Africa, where smartphone use is rapidly increasing.

According to the GSMA Consumer Survey 2023, 19% of mobile phone users in South Africa have experienced the theft or loss of their devices in the past year.
Similar trends have been observed in Kenya (61% adoption), Uganda (31%) and Rwanda and Burundi (24-25%), highlighting the urgent need for effective security solutions.

Stolen phones are attractive to criminals because of their resale value and sensitive data, which can lead to significant financial and personal consequences for victims.