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.