Better data security for Android phones

Location-based locks are intended to strengthen data security on Android phones. The optional function known as "Identity Check" prevents access to certain data and functions if the device is located outside predefined geographical locations. Users can define the locations where no Identity Check is required themselves. Google is thinking in particular of the workplace and home.

For access in other locations, the lock can only be lifted by biometric authentication, according to Google's announcement. Certain functions are protected: Changing PINs, patterns, passwords or biometric features to unlock the device, switching off Android anti-theft protection and device localization (Find My Device), access to passwords and passkeys in Google Password Manager, automatic entry of passwords in apps (but not in the Chrome browser), factory reset, display of trusted locations, copying data and settings to a new device, deleting or adding a Google account, access to developer options and, of course, switching off Identity Check.

The new function will initially be available on Pixel phones with Android 15 and Samsung phones in the Galaxy series that use the One UI 7 user interface. Android devices from other manufacturers are to follow. When Identity Check is activated, enhanced access protection is automatically activated for the connected Google account and, if applicable, the device's Samsung account. As usual, the rollout should take place gradually, not for all covered cell phones at the same time.

Google began rolling out theft protection for Android in October. According to the data company, this has now been completed. All Android phones from Android 10 onwards can use the theft protection function, with the exception of the slimmed-down Android Go variants. Since Android 9, every Android version also has a "Go" version. This is a version of the operating system optimized for less powerful devices and mobile networks, which is also tailored to the needs of multilingual users. It remains to be seen whether Identity Check will one day also be available for Android Go.

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