With the release of Android 15, the security of devices running this operating system will significantly improve. This applies to both Pixel smartphones and other devices running Android 10 and higher. Among the main innovations are blocking when trying to disconnect from the network, blocking in remote mode, as well as enhanced protection against resetting to factory settings.
Image source: Google
The reasons why Google is strengthening protection against physical theft of a device are obvious. Losing your phone can be very stressful, especially considering how much information is stored on it. Photos, bank and personal data – all this can end up in the hands of criminals. The update, which became available on October 15, offers new methods to protect your phone both at the time of theft and before it.
One of the main features was Theft Detection Lock, a locking system based on artificial intelligence. To recognize an attempted theft, the function uses AI, analyzes various factors, including sharp fluctuations, for example, when the smartphone is snatched from the hands, and if non-standard actions are detected, the screen is automatically locked so that the thief cannot access the device. Google has already begun to gradually implement Theft Detection Lock, including on Android 10 and versions above.
Additionally, the Offline Device Lock function is introduced, which protects the phone in case an attacker tries to disconnect it from the network in order to extract data or avoid the “Find Device” option. If the phone remains offline for a long time, the screen will be locked. Another interesting feature, Remote Lock, allows you to quickly lock a stolen device remotely. The system will not only be able to block it, but also detect its location and erase the data.
Google also took care of security in general. Changing settings such as Find My Device now requires you to enter a PIN or password. And multiple unsuccessful login attempts may be considered an attempted theft, after which the device will be locked. Finally, improved factory reset protection will make it more difficult to reset your phone without access to your Google account. This step, according to the company, will make the resale of stolen phones less profitable and at the same time protect the owners’ data.
Additionally, it plans to add an optional Identity Check feature later this year, which can be used for biometric authentication when accessing key device settings, such as changing the PIN or turning off anti-theft protection.