Android Bolsters Security with New Theft Detection Lock and Factory Reset Protection Features

At I/O 2024, Android announced several new features aimed at boosting security and theft protections. One upgrade involves enhancing factory reset protection so thieves cannot wipe stolen devices without knowing the owner's device or Google account credentials. The forthcoming Theft Detection Lock uses sensors to lock a phone if someone attempts to steal it by running, biking, or driving away with it Offline Device Lock activates when someone steals your phone and switches off its internet connection.

Google is also introducing Remote Lock for Android devices which enables users to quickly lock their smartphone's display using just their phone number plus a security challenge - without needing their Google password. This buys time before they can access additional options such as initiating a complete factory reset of the device.

Other features mentioned include enhancements to Play Protect, Android’s malicious app detection system and Private Compute Core which handles sensitive data processing on users' devices. New cellular protection capabilities arriving with Android 15 will warn users about unencrypted network connections.

Many of these upgrades are scheduled for rollout via Google Play services updates over the coming year while some security enhancements like private space and factory reset protections will be part of Android 15.