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Theft Prevention
Android Google Security Technology Theft Prevention

Google’s Latest Theft Protection for Android Devices

 




Google is introducing new high-level theft protection features for Android 10 and above devices across Google Play services. The new technologies were announced at the I/O 2024 event, with the main idea being to protect users' data and make possible recovery of the device in case it has been stolen. Read the breakdown of these new tools and how they work.

How to Get Theft Protection on Android

Features can be turned on in the Settings app by using the phrase "Theft protection" or in the "Personal & device safety" section, found under the "All services" tab of the new Google services page. These three Theft Protection built-ins, writes the Theft Protection webpage, safeguard personal data if one's device is stolen.

Theft Detection Lock

The first one identifies unusual movement through the combination of sensors, Wi-Fi and smart device connectivity. If some person grabs an unlocked phone and runs away, Theft Detection Lock will automatically lock the screen so that no one can thereafter access private information.

Offline Device Lock

The second feature delivers security when there is no internet connection available. When someone attempts to lock tracking by turning off the internet on the device, this lock will have some conditions triggered, because the device was unlocked and in operation. The screen may be locked up to two times a day through this feature, adding protection to users in the case of theft.

Remote Lock via Website 

Remote Lock lets one lock their device from elsewhere using the webpage android.com/lock once a device is stolen. At this point, users are simply required to input a confirmed number and security challenge to lock the phone. It is at this point that Google advises users to use the feature on the device of a trusted person to access the lock screen easily. In many cases, it is said to work faster than "Find My Device".

Limited Testing and Availability

First tested in Brazil in early this year, these theft protection tools have begun rolling out to Android users around the world in lots of different brands including Pixel and Samsung. These features are still found on the beta version of Google Play services (24.40.33) and should reach the stable version soon.

New Theft Protection features from Google mark the advancement of device protection, especially for those whose main fears are stolen devices. As this comes up, users are strongly advised to turn to their settings to help make their devices safer than ever.

In these updates, it becomes clear that Google is doing its best to stay ahead of possible data losses and to minimise the effects brought about by theft incidents in a very digital age.


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Theft Prevention
AI technology Android Android devices Android Security Cyber Security Data protection Google Theft Prevention

Google Introduces Advanced Anti-Theft and Data Protection Features for Android Devices

 

Google is set to introduce multiple anti-theft and data protection features later this year, targeting devices from Android 10 up to the upcoming Android 15. These new security measures aim to enhance user protection in cases of device theft or loss, combining AI and new authentication protocols to safeguard sensitive data. 

One of the standout features is the AI-powered Theft Detection Lock. This innovation will lock your device's screen if it detects abrupt motions typically associated with theft attempts, such as a thief snatching the device out of your hand. Another feature, the Offline Device Lock, ensures that your device will automatically lock if it is disconnected from the network or if there are too many failed authentication attempts, preventing unauthorized access. 

Google also introduced the Remote Lock feature, allowing users to lock their stolen devices remotely via android.com/lock. This function requires only the phone number and a security challenge, giving users time to recover their account details and utilize additional options in Find My Device, such as initiating a full factory reset to wipe the device clean. 

According to Google Vice President Suzanne Frey, these features aim to make it significantly harder for thieves to access stolen devices. All these features—Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock—will be available through a Google Play services update for devices running Android 10 or later. Additionally, the new Android 15 release will bring enhanced factory reset protection. This upgrade will require Google account credentials during the setup process if a stolen device undergoes a factory reset. 

This step renders stolen devices unsellable, thereby reducing incentives for phone theft. Frey explained that without the device or Google account credentials, a thief won't be able to set up the device post-reset, essentially bricking the stolen device. To further bolster security, Android 15 will mandate the use of PIN, password, or biometric authentication when accessing or changing critical Google account and device settings from untrusted locations. This includes actions like changing your PIN, accessing Passkeys, or disabling theft protection. 

Similarly, disabling Find My Device or extending the screen timeout will also require authentication, adding another layer of security against criminals attempting to render a stolen device untrackable. Android 15 will also introduce "private spaces," which can be locked using a user-chosen PIN. This feature is designed to protect sensitive data stored in apps, such as health or financial information, from being accessed by thieves.                                                                           
These updates, including factory reset protection and private spaces, will be part of the Android 15 launch this fall. Enhanced authentication protections will roll out to select devices later this year. 
Google also announced at Google I/O 2024 new features in Android 15 and Google Play Protect aimed at combating scams, fraud, spyware, and banking malware. These comprehensive updates underline Google's commitment to user security in the increasingly digital age.
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Theft Prevention
Privacy Privacy Concerns Retail AI Security Systems Theft Prevention

The Power and Pitfalls of AI-Driven Retail Security Systems


Theft is a major concern for retailers, and the pandemic has only made it worse. With U.S. merchants bracing for an estimated $100 billion in losses this year, innovative solutions are taking center stage. One such solution is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into security systems.

The Power and Pitfalls of Retail AI Solutions Against Theft

Traditional surveillance methods have fallen short in detecting and preventing retail theft. AI-driven security systems offer real-time threat detection and response, which is a significant improvement over traditional surveillance methods. Laura Freeman of Watcher Total Protection demonstrated the integration of AI into security systems as a potential game-changer for retailers at a recent Ace Hardware convention. 

These systems are adept at recognizing suspicious activities such as shoplifting, triggering instant alerts, and enabling swift responses. The use of smart tags on high-value items streamlines the review process, allowing merchants to focus on critical footage, and reducing the time spent on investigations.

Retail AI solutions in the battle against theft

In response to a mounting surge in internal theft perpetrated by retail employees, a significant paradigm shift has been instigated, heralding the advent of AI integration. At present, these discerning systems operate with acute precision, engaging in real-time scrutiny of cashier interactions while deftly navigating a labyrinthine array of data stemming from cash registers. 

Their overarching goal? To keenly discern anomalies suggestive of potential theft. As a nuanced and multifaceted rejoinder to this escalating challenge, the strategic deployment of body cameras for clerks stationed in high-crime locales has been orchestrated, complemented by the judicious implementation of facial recognition technology.

Privacy concerns and regulatory measures

While AI-driven security systems offer real-time threat detection and response, they raise ethical concerns about privacy and data misuse. Retailers are grappling with these implications, prompting the need for regulatory frameworks. 

The use of facial recognition technology has been particularly controversial due to its potential for misuse and abuse. In 2019, San Francisco became the first city in the United States to ban facial recognition technology by law enforcement agencies. The European Union has also proposed a ban on facial recognition technology in public spaces.

What's next?

AI-driven security systems offer real-time threat detection and response which is a significant improvement over traditional surveillance methods. However, their use raises ethical concerns about privacy and data misuse. Retailers are grappling with these implications, prompting the need for regulatory frameworks. While AI-driven security systems have great potential to combat retail theft, it is essential to balance their benefits with ethical considerations.

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