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Powered by artificial intelligence, the tool aims to keep personal information safe. Google's latest Android update tried to outsmart thieves with a game-changing security feature on your smartphone. The long-awaited Theft Detection Lock, first teased at Google I/O earlier this year, is now rolling out to Android devices.
This artificial intelligence-powered tool aims to keep your personal information safe if someone tries to snatch your phone. If you have an iPhone, you'll want to check out Apple's stolen device protection. GET SECURITY ALERTS, EXPERT TIPS – SIGN UP FOR KURT’S NEWSLETTER – THE CYBERGUY REPORT HERE Theft Detection Lock feature on Android (Google) How Theft Detection Lock works Theft Detection Lock uses your phone's built-in sensors to detect suspicious movements associated with theft.
If someone grabs your phone and tries to make a quick getaway, the AI kicks in and locks your screen instantly. This feature utilizes the gyroscope and accelerometer to recognize sudden jerks or jolts followed by rapid acceleration. But, first, make sure your phone is updated to the latest software by following these steps: S ettings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer Go to your phone's Settings app.
Tap on " 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) BEST ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR ANDROID Steps to enable Theft Detection Lock S ettings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer Open your phone's Settings app Tap the search icon and type "anti theft" Select "Theft Protection" from the results Toggle the switch next to "Theft Detection Lock" to turn it on Read the pop-up explanation and tap "Turn On " to confirm WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)? Steps to enable Theft Detection Lock on Android (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson) ANDROID'S LATEST NIGHTMARE: MILLIONS OF DEVICES INFECTED BY SNEAKY MALWARE Additional anti-theft features Along with Theft Detection Lock, Google is rolling out two more security features, Offline Device Lock and Remote Lock . Offline Device Lock Offline Device Lock secures your phone if it's kept offline for an extended period. This feature ensures that your device remains protected even when it’s not connected to the internet.
Here's how to set up Offline Device Lock. S ettings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer Go to your phone’s Settings app. Tap the search icon and type "anti theft" Select "Theft protection" from the results Toggle the switch next to "Offline Device Lock" to turn it on Read the pop-up explanation and tap "Turn On " to confirm Follow the on-screen instructions to enable Offline Device Lock.
This might include setting a PIN, password or pattern. GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO BY CLICKING HERE Steps to enable Offline Device Lock on Android (Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson) FREE UP STORAGE SPACE ON YOUR ANDROID WITH THIS UPDATED APP Remote Lock It allows you to lock your device remotely using just your phone number. This feature is particularly useful if your phone is lost or stolen.
Here's how to set up Remote Lock. S ettings may vary depending on your Android phone’s manufacturer Go to your phone’s Settings app Take More Security Settings Tap on Theft protection Scroll down and tap Remote Lock Toggle on next to where it says Use Remote Lock Follow the on-screen prompts to link your phone number PROTECT YOUR ANDROIDS FROM MALWARE 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 need to wait a bit longer as the rollout continues.
Kurt's key takeaways Google's new anti-theft features represent a significant step forward in smartphone security. By leveraging AI and on-device sensors, Android phones can now actively protect against theft attempts. As these features become more widely available, they should provide you with greater peace of mind and potentially deter would-be thieves.
Remember to keep your Android device updated to ensure you have access to the latest security enhancements. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP What other security features would you like to see implemented in future smartphone updates? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.
com/Newsletter Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you'd like us to cover Follow Kurt on his social channels Facebook YouTube Instagram Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions: What is the best way to protect your Mac, Windows, iPhone and Android devices from getting hacked? What is the best way to stay private, secure and anonymous while browsing the web? How can I get rid of robocalls with apps and data removal services? How do I remove my private data from the internet? New from Kurt: Try CyberGuy's new games (crosswords, word searches, trivia and more!) Copyright 2024 CyberGuy.com. All rights reserved.
Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on "FOX & Friends." Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.
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