The growing threat of phone theft in Africa has prompted Google to roll out enhanced security updates to protect Android users. With rising theft rates, according to the 2023 GSMA Consumer Survey, 19% of South African phone users report losing their devices every year, the need for robust security measures for phone theft prevention is more urgent than ever.
Google’s newly launched feature, available globally on Android 10+ and Android 15 devices, leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and biometric authentication to protect users before, during and after theft, as well as attempted theft.
Key innovations include Theft Detection Lock, an AI-driven tool that uses machine learning to detect suspicious handling patterns. When a potential theft is detected, the feature locks the screen to prevent unauthorized access.
Additionally, there is Offline Device Lock, which protects your phone when it goes offline to avoid tracking and remote wipes, and Remote Lock, which allows users to protect their device by simply visiting android.com/lock with an authenticated phone number.
These tools seamlessly integrate with Android’s Find My Device feature, allowing users to locate, protect, and remotely wipe their device to protect sensitive data.
Android 15 introduces additional deterrent measures, including requiring biometric authentication when changing key settings, enhanced factory reset protection, and locking the device after multiple failed login attempts.
Later this year, Google plans to introduce Identity Check, an optional feature that will require biometric authentication for high-risk actions, such as disabling anti-theft protection. These updates are already accessible through Google Play services updates.
