Today, our Android devices play a crucial role in staying connected, managing finances, and keeping track of healthcare, all at our fingertips. However, a stolen device in the wrong hands can put sensitive data at risk, exposing you to identity theft, financial fraud, and privacy breaches.
To address this, we’ve launched Android theft protection—a comprehensive set of features designed to safeguard your data before, during, and after device theft. We’re expanding and enhancing these protections to provide even more robust security to users worldwide, ensuring you can stay safe while using Android.
Identity Check Now Available on Pixel and Samsung One UI 7 Devices
We’re excited to officially roll out Identity Check, starting with Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices eligible for One UI 7. This new feature offers enhanced protection for your critical account and device settings. With Identity Check enabled, your device will require biometric authentication to access sensitive resources when you’re outside of trusted locations. It also strengthens security for Google Accounts on all supported devices and adds extra protection for Samsung Accounts on eligible Galaxy devices, making it harder for unauthorized users to take control of your accounts.
As part of this rollout, you can set up one or more trusted locations. When you’re outside of these areas, you’ll need biometric authentication to access important settings, such as changing your device PIN, adjusting biometric settings, disabling theft protection, or managing Passkeys.
Identity Check provides extra peace of mind by protecting your sensitive device data, even if someone learns your PIN. It’s now available on Pixel devices with Android 15 and will soon reach One UI 7-enabled Galaxy devices. Support for other Android devices will follow later this year.
Expanding AI-Powered Theft Detection Lock to More Users
One of the standout theft protection features introduced last year, Theft Detection Lock, uses AI-powered technology to detect when someone might forcibly take your phone. If the system detects a potential theft while your device is unlocked, it locks the screen to prevent unauthorized access.
Now, Theft Detection Lock is fully available on Android 10+ phones worldwide, offering an added layer of security to more users.
Keeping Your Android Device Safe from Theft
We’re working closely with the GSMA and industry experts to tackle mobile device theft by sharing valuable information, tools, and prevention strategies. Keep an eye out for an upcoming GSMA white paper, created in collaboration with the mobile industry, offering more insights on how to protect yourself and your organization from device theft.
With the addition of Identity Check and ongoing improvements to our existing features, Android provides a comprehensive range of tools to safeguard your devices and data from theft. We’re committed to giving you peace of mind, knowing your personal information is protected.
