Android smartphones will be entitled to new protection and theft prevention measures. By relying on AI, Android will be able to detect if your phone has been stolen and automatically lock it!
Like everyone else, you are not safe from having your smartphone stolen, whether by a pickpocket on crowded public transport or during a snatching at the corner of a street. And although it is difficult to protect against these theft attempts, manufacturers strive to limit the negative consequences on users as much as possible. So, if the chances of recovering your precious mobile are extremely slim, you can nevertheless prevent the thief from rummaging through its contents, getting their hands on sensitive data (banking application, passwords, etc.), and even if he can use the device (see our article). In all cases, you must act immediately, without wasting time! To further combat this scourge, Google announced in a blog post that it would deploy new anti-theft functions during the year 2024, on devices running Android 10 and above, or exclusively on Android 15, in order to limit damage.
Android anti-theft: automatic locking of the smartphone in the event of theft
The first new function is called Detection Lock and allows you to automatically lock the smartphone when it is stolen, so that the criminal cannot rummage through it. For this, Google relies on motion sensors, as well as artificial intelligence, to detect sudden and unexpected movements, usually synonymous with someone pulling your hand and fleeing on foot, by bike or by car . It’s very simple, without an unlock code or biometric means, the thief cannot access the data. You, on the other hand, simply have to unlock the smartphone, as usual.
A second option, Offline Device Lock, will also be available starting with Android 10. If a thief attempts to disconnect your phone for extended periods of time, Offline Device Lock will automatically lock your screen to protect your data, including when your device is off-network. Practical ! The operating system will also be able to recognize other signs that your device is in the wrong hands. For example, it will lock your device screen when the number of failed authentication attempts becomes too high.
Google will also update its Android factory reset protection, which allows a thief to reset a stolen device for resale. Now, if a pickpocket decides to force reset the stolen device, they won’t be able to set it up again without knowing the credentials of the device or your Google account. The stolen device will thus become unsaleable.
Android Anti-Theft: security features exclusive to Android 15
Other functions, however, are exclusive to Android 15. The company is thus introducing “private spaces”, which allow you to place applications (finance, health, etc.) and sensitive information in a separate and hidden area of your phone. , which can be locked using a unique PIN code. An additional layer of protection to prevent the thief from siphoning data and transferring funds from the stolen device. A bit like a safe!
A new function, Reinforced Authentication, can protect you in case your PIN code is known to the thief. When enabled, the new enhanced authentication will require biometrics to access and change essential settings for your Google account and device, such as changing the PIN, turning off theft protection or access to passkeys. Are you more reassured?