Google Starts Launching Android Theft Protection Features

Google is now starting to release a series of theft protection features (photo: x @MishaalRahman)

After being announced at the I/O 2024 event in May, Google is now starting to release a series of theft protection features for 10+ Android devices through Play Services. This feature is designed to protect users' personal data if their devices are stolen.

Users can access this feature by searching for "Theft Protection" in the Android device Settings app or through a redesigned Google service page, in the All services > Personal & device safety tab.

This new setting page describes the built-in protection that will secure users' personal data if their phone is stolen. Here are three main features introduced:

This LockFiture Theft Detection uses device sensors, Wi-Fi, and other smart device connections to detect if someone suddenly retrieves a phone while the device is in an unlocked condition. If detected, the device screen will be locked automatically to prevent unauthorized access to personal data.

This LockFiture Offline Device is active if the thief turns off the internet on the stolen device to avoid location tracking. Google provides the two main conditions for activating this feature:

Remote Lock Users can visit the Android.com.com/lock site once the device is stolen to call a specific number. Users must enter their confirmed phone numbers during the settings process, as well as security challenges. This feature can be done from trusted people's phones and is claimed to be faster than using the Find My Device feature.

This feature was previously tested in Brazil in June and is now starting to roll out in stages in various countries, including for users of Pixel and Samsung devices. However, the full launch of this feature is not complete and is currently only available to those using the beta version of Google Play Services (version 24.40.33).