Android: New features will make smartphones unusable for thieves

Smartphones have now become a necessary utility object for every day, thanks above all to the many functions available. However, their growing importance and the vast amount of data they contain make them attractive targets for thieves. To combat this problem, Google is introducing a new suite of advanced features for theft protection on Android devices.

Data protection

Google is strengthening the security of Android devices with a series of new features designed to prevent theft and protect sensitive user data. Among these innovations stands out upgrade to factory reset protection. Traditionally, thieves aim to quickly reset a stolen device so they can resell it. With the Android update, if a thief tries to force a reset, he or she will not be able to set up the device again without knowing the user’s Google account credentials, thus making the device unusable and less attractive to the black market. .

Furthermore, the new Private Space feature allows you to create a separate, hidden section in your phone, protected by a separate PIN, where sensitive apps and data, such as financial or health information, can be stored. This adds an extra layer of security for your most sensitive information.

Finally, to prevent a thief from changing crucial device settings, such as disabling Find My Device or extending screen timeout, Android now requires authentication via PIN, password or biometrics to make such changes, ensuring that only legitimate owner can do so.

Automatic protection during theft

It is not always possible to be quick and easy after a theft, and users often pay the price. For this reason, Google has developed new automatic protection features that come into action immediately during a theft attempt. The Theft Detection Lock feature uses artificial intelligence by Google to recognize suspicious movements that indicate theft, such as when a phone is snatched from a user’s hands and quickly taken away.

If such movements are detected, your device’s screen automatically locks, preventing thieves from accessing your data. Another innovation is the Offline Device Lock, which protects data even when the device is not connected to the network. If a thief tries to disconnect your phone for an extended period, the device automatically locks, making unauthorized access attempts useless.

Smartphone lock and recovery

Google finally enhanced the capabilities of Find My Device to help users in these critical moments. The new Remote Lock feature allows users to lock their phone screen using just your phone number and a simple security challenge, accessible from any device.

This feature offers a lifeline to users, allowing them to buy time to retrieve account details and access other Find My Device options, such as sending a factory reset command to completely wipe your device, ensuring no one can access your personal data.

Additionally, Find My Device now allows you to mark your phone as lost, making it easier to track and increase the chances of recovering your stolen device. These measures combine speed of action with effective tools to keep user data safe even after the phone has been stolen.