Google starts implementing theft protection on Android.

At this year's Google I/O event, several security improvements were introduced to protect Android devices in theft situations. These updates allow, among other things, the ability to lock the phone and set new security measures that prevent a thief from configuring the device. Although it was expected that some of these features would arrive with the public release of Android 15, they have already started being implemented on user devices in the U.S., following prior testing in Brazil.

One of the standout features is "Theft Detection." This system automatically locks the phone's screen upon detecting common movements associated with theft, making it difficult for thieves to access user data, using the device's sensors and connections for this detection.

Another functionality is "Offline Device Lock." If a thief attempts to keep the phone offline to avoid being tracked, the screen will automatically lock. A similar locking protocol is activated when multiple failed authentication attempts to unlock the device are detected.

Lastly, there is "Remote Lock." If a device is stolen and its anti-theft measures are not activated, the user still has the option to remotely lock their device through the "Find My Device" page on Android. To use this feature, the user must go through a security verification process and enter the number that was active on the phone at the time of theft. After executing the remote lock, the device can only be unlocked using the original unlock method of the user, which may be a password or biometric data. It is important to note that for this function to work, the stolen device must be online; if it is not, the lock will be activated as soon as it connects to the internet.

The Theft Detection, Remote Lock, and Offline Device Lock features will be available for all Android devices running Android 15 or a later version. For now, the rollout appears to be gradual, with users in the U.S. receiving them at this stage.