Every year, Google adds new privacy and security features to Android smartphones and tablets. The company has started rolling out a new feature designed to reduce phone theft by locking a stolen phone, rendering the phone unusable to the thief and increasing the privacy and security of the user’s data if it is stolen.

Theft detection feature for Android could reduce mobile phone thefts

Google has started rolling out the theft detection feature on Android smartphones in Brazil (spotted by Mishaal Rahman). Announced in May 2024, this feature is already rolling out. It uses the phone’s accelerometer and Google’s AI algorithms to look for signs that the phone has been stolen. If the phone’s sudden movements make it seem like it has been snatched from the user, the device locks itself so that the thief cannot access the data stored on the phone.

Additionally, if the thief tries to unplug your phone for an extended period of time, the Offline Device Lock feature will automatically lock your phone’s screen, keeping your data safe even when the phone isn’t connected to the internet. These features are available on all Android devices running Android 10 (or later).

The company is adding some extra features to give you peace of mind if your phone is stolen. Even if a thief resets the phone, they won’t be able to set it up again without knowing your Google account credentials. You can use the private space to store sensitive files and hide them with a separate PIN, providing an extra layer of security in case your phone is stolen or misplaced.

If a thief tries to disable Find My Device on your Android phone or tablet, they’ll also need your PIN, password, or fingerprint. If they know your PIN and try to change it, disable Anti-Theft, or steal your passcodes, they’ll need your biometrics.

If you want to use Find My Device to track the location of your stolen phone but can’t remember your Google account password, you can simply use your phone number and pass a security prompt to quickly access the remote lock and full factory reset options. The Find My Device feature requires a phone running Android 5 (or later).

Photo credit: Mishaal Rahman