Google’s latest Android update tried to outsmart thieves with a groundbreaking security feature on your smartphone.
The highly anticipated Theft Detection Lock, which was first teased at Google I/O earlier this year, is now rolling out to Android devices.
This AI-powered tool aims to keep your personal information safe if someone tries to take your phone.
If you have an iPhone, you’ll want to give this a try Protection against stolen devices from Apple.
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Theft detection lock feature on Android (Google)
How the theft detection lock works
Theft Detection Lock uses your phone’s built-in sensors to detect suspicious movements related to theft. If someone grabs your phone and tries to escape quickly, the AI kicks in and locks your screen immediately. This feature uses the gyroscope and accelerometer to detect sudden jerks or jerks, followed by rapid acceleration. But first make sure your phone has been updated to the latest software by following these steps:
SThe settings may vary depending on the manufacturer of your Android phone
- Go to your phone’s Institutions app.
- Tap “System” or “Software update” to check for available updates.
- If an update is available, tap “Download and Install” and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Once the update is installed, restart your phone to complete the process.
Steps to update software on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Steps to enable theft detection lock
SThe settings may vary depending on the manufacturer of your Android phone
- Open it from your phone Institutions app
- Tap the search icon and type “anti-theft”
- Select “Theft protection” from the results
- Set the switch next to “Theft detection lock” to turn it on
- Read the pop-up explanation and tap “Turn onto confirm
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Steps to enable theft detection lock on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Additional anti-theft features
In addition to Theft Detection Lock, Google is introducing two more security features: Offline device lock and remote lock.
Offline device lock
Offline Device Lock secures your phone if it is kept offline for an extended period of time. This feature ensures that your device remains protected even when it is not connected to the internet. Here’s how to set up Offline Device Lock.
SThe settings may vary depending on the manufacturer of your Android phone
- Go to your phone’s Institutions app.
- Tap the search icon and type “anti-theft”
- Select “Theft protection” from the results
- Set the switch next to “Offline Device Lock” to turn it on
- Read the pop-up explanation and tap “Turn onto confirm
- Follow the instructions on the screen to enable Offline Device Lock. This may include setting a PIN, password or pattern.
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Steps to enable offline device lock on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
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Remote locking
It allows you to lock your device remotely using just your phone number. This feature is especially useful if your phone is lost or stolen. Here’s how to set up Remote Lock.
SThe settings may vary depending on the manufacturer of your Android phone
- Go to your phone’s Institutions app
- To take More security settings
- Tap Protection against theft
- Scroll down and tap Remote locking
- Switch on next to where it is Use external locking
- Follow the on-screen instructions to link your telephone number
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Steps to Enable Remote Lock on Android (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)
Availability
These new features are rolling out to Android devices running Android 10 or later. While some users already have access, others may have to wait a little longer as the rollout continues.
Kurt’s most important insights
Google’s new anti-theft features represent a significant step forward in smartphone security. By means of using AI and on-device sensors can now actively protect Android phones from theft attempts. As these features become more widely available, they should give you greater peace of mind and potentially deter potential thieves. Don’t forget to keep your Android device up to date to ensure you have access to the latest security improvements.
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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning technology journalist with a deep love for technology, gear and gadgets that make lives better through his contributions to Fox News and FOX Business from mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Do you have a technical question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy newsletter, share your vote, a story idea or comment CyberGuy.com.
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