Smartphone usage is rapidly increasing in Sub-Saharan Africa, with adoption rates soaring to 61% in Kenya, 31% in Uganda, and 24-25% in Rwanda and Burundi.
However, the surge in smartphone ownership has led to a corresponding rise in cellphone theft, making these devices prime targets for criminals.
The allure of resale value and the sensitive data stored on smartphones pose significant challenges for individuals and businesses alike in the region.
According to the GSMA Consumer Survey 2023, 19% of mobile phone users in South Africa reported experiencing theft or loss of their device in the past year. The GSMA estimates that millions of devices are stolen annually, and this trend is on the rise.
With smartphones increasingly central to our lives—storing everything from payment information to personal details—losing one can be a distressing experience.
Protecting Against Phone Theft
Phone theft can be traumatic, but there are proactive measures that users can take to safeguard their devices and personal information. To combat this issue, we have developed a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect users before, during, and after a theft attempt.
These advanced theft protection features are now available globally through Android 15 and a Google Play Services update for devices running Android 10 and above.
Key Features of Android 15 Theft Protection
- Theft Detection Lock: Utilizing advanced AI and on-device machine learning, Theft Detection Lock analyzes various device signals to detect potential theft attempts. If a theft is suspected, the feature automatically locks the screen, keeping thieves at bay.
- Offline Device Lock: This feature secures your device if a thief attempts to take it offline to extract data or avoid a remote wipe. If your unlocked device goes offline for an extended period, Offline Device Lock activates, locking the screen to prevent unauthorized access.
- Remote Lock: If your device is lost or stolen, Remote Lock allows you to secure it quickly. Even if you cannot recall your Google account credentials, you can lock your phone using any device by visiting Android.com/lock. This feature works in conjunction with Android’s Find My Device, enabling you to secure, locate, or remotely wipe your device.
- Enhanced Security Features: Android 15 introduces additional security measures to deter theft before it occurs. Sensitive settings like Find My Device now require your PIN, password, or biometric authentication. Multiple failed login attempts will lock down your device, preventing unauthorized access, while enhanced factory reset protection makes it difficult for thieves to reset your device without your Google account credentials.
- Identity Check: Later this year, we will launch Identity Check, an opt-in feature that adds an extra layer of protection by requiring biometric authentication to access critical Google account and device settings. This feature helps prevent unauthorized access, even if your device PIN is compromised.
Real-World Protection for Android Users
By integrating cutting-edge technology like AI and biometric authentication, Android is making devices less appealing targets for thieves, providing users with peace of mind.
These theft protection features exemplify our commitment to enhancing security and helping users keep their data safe.
To activate the new theft protection features on your supported Android device, click here. For more information about our theft protection capabilities, visit our help center.
