- AI-powered tools to safeguard phones and data from theft
- New security measures to deter phone theft in Africa and beyond
Google has announced the launch of new advanced theft protection features for Android devices, designed to combat phone theft and safeguard sensitive user data. The announcement, made in Lagos on Tuesday, highlights Google’s commitment to bolstering smartphone security in Africa and worldwide.
AI-Powered Protection
The features, available on most Android 10+ devices, include AI-powered theft detection, offline device lock, and enhanced security measures. These tools are aimed at preventing unauthorized access and ensuring data security, even when devices are offline.
“Phone theft is a significant concern, particularly in regions like Africa, where smartphones are becoming attractive targets due to their resale value and sensitive data,” said Oluwaseun Odufuwa, Account Manager at Irvine Partners, in a statement.
Key Features
- Theft Detection Lock: Uses on-device AI to analyze signals and lock the screen when theft is suspected, preventing unauthorized access.
- Offline Device Lock: Ensures devices are secured even when offline, safeguarding data and rendering the phone unusable to thieves.
- Enhanced Factory Reset Protection: Requires Google account credentials to reset the device, deterring resale by thieves.
- Identity Check (Launching Soon): Adds an extra layer of security by requiring biometric authentication for critical account and device settings.
Growing Concerns in Africa
With smartphone adoption rising across Sub-Saharan Africa, incidents of phone theft have also increased. According to the GSMA Consumer Survey 2023, 19% of mobile users in South Africa reported theft or loss of their phones in the past year.
The new features aim to address these challenges, providing real-world solutions for Android users.
User Guide
To enable the features:
- Navigate to your device’s settings.
- Select “Security.”
- Enable “Theft Protection” under the appropriate settings menu.
These updates are rolling out gradually through Google Play Services and are compatible with most Android 10+ devices.
Commitment to Security
Google emphasized its dedication to enhancing Android’s security ecosystem, partnering globally to safeguard user data and devices.
“We are committed to providing tools that protect users before, during, and after theft. With these measures, Android users can feel safer knowing their devices are less appealing targets,” the statement concluded.
For more details, users can visit Google’s Help Center or explore the features through their device’s settings.
