How to use Google’s AI-powered Theft Detection Lock in Android

I'm a big fan of data security in a world where hacks happen constantly, with complex account takeover scams now assisted by AI. It's not just about securing apps and logins with strong, unique passwords — it's also about protecting the main computer in my life, my smartphone.

I hope I won't have to, but I'm already prepared to deal with having my iPhone stolen. The handset is protected by a password and Face ID, various apps are also protected, and I employ all of Apple's security features to help enhance my security. I track the iPhone, and I can wipe it remotely. I also have backups of my data, and Activation Lock prevents hackers from getting into the handset even after it is wiped.

A security feature Google started testing during the Android 15 beta phase also caught my attention. Google is using AI to determine whether a phone was just stolen and lock the device. The feature is called Theft Detection Lock, and you should enable it the first chance you get.

Theft Detection Lock is part of the big Android 15 update and Pixel Drop that Google released on Tuesday. But the best part about the feature is that you don't need Android 15 to run it. It'll work on Android devices running Android 10 or later, which should cover about 90% of Android devices that are currently in use.

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The post How to use Google’s AI-powered Theft Detection Lock in Android appeared first on BGR.

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