• Google has unveiled a series of new security features to protect Android phone users from data theft and breaches
• Google has integrated advanced technologies like AI and biometric authentication into its new security features to combat theft threats
• The tech giant revealed that a cornerstone of these new features is Theft Detection Lock, an AI-enabled feature.

Legit.ng’s Pascal Opada reported on technology, energy, stocks, investments and economy for over a decade.

Google has introduced security updates to protect Android phone users from theft and data breaches.

The development comes in response to increasing phone theft in several regions, including the south Africawhere approximately 19% of mobile phone users reported losing their devices in 2023.

Phone theft is on the rise in Africa

Data from the GSMA Consumer survey shows that the trend is worrying in other African countries, including Nigeria. Phone theft rates reached 61% in Kenya and 31% in Uganda, underscoring the urgent need for improved security measures.

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Google has integrated advanced technologies such as AI and biometric authentication into its new security features to combat theft threats.

Devices that can access the new features

The updates are now available worldwide via a Google Play update for Android 10+ and Android 15 devices.

The tech giant revealed in a blog post that Anti-Theft Lock is the cornerstone of these new features. This AI-enabled feature uses machine learning to identify suspicious manipulation patterns.

The post revealed that if the system detects possible theft, it automatically locks the device’s screen to prevent unauthorized access.

Google also introduced Offline Device Lock, which enables a phone to bypass tracking or remote wipe if it’s removed from the internet.

New exciting anti-theft features

During the offline period, the device is automatically locked to protect user data. The feature allows users to secure their devices remotely without the need for Google account details.

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use maybe quickly lock their phones by visiting Android.com/lock and entering verified phone numbers.

The feature integrates seamlessly with Find My Device, allowing users to remotely locate, secure or wipe devices if they are lost or stolen.

The company also urges users to regularly back up their data to minimize potential loss during remote wipe.

The tech firm has also stepped up preventative measures, requiring PIN, password or biometric authentication to access sensitive settings such as Find My Device.

No more resetting Android phones

Multiple failed login attempts will trigger a lockout to prevent password guessing attacks.

According to reports, the Factory Reset Protection feature has been improved to make it more difficult for thieves to reset a stolen device without the original Good account details, reducing the resale value.

Google said it will introduce the identity verification feature later this year. This feature will require biometric authentication to access crucial settings and provide additional protection.

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NITDA advises Nigerians to protect WhatsApp accounts as Meta introduces 6 new features

NITDA advises Nigerians to secure their WhatsApp accounts

Legit.ng previously reported that the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has advise Nigerians to strengthen the security of its WhatsApp accounts in a new advisory note published on Tuesday, November 12, 2024.

In its advisory, the agency emphasizes proactive security steps for individual users and group administrators.

The notice issued on X, NITDA added, is in response to growing concerns about cyber threats targeting social media messaging apps, especially WhatsApp, given its widespread use in Nigeria.

Source: Legit.ng