Google has introduced a new security feature called Identity Check for Android devices that requires biometric authentication to access critical account and device settings when users are outside trusted locations. The feature expands upon Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance mobile security through biometric authentication systems on Android devices.
Identity Check requires explicit biometric verification, such as fingerprint or face unlock, to access sensitive device functions and settings when away from designated trusted places. Protected actions include accessing saved passwords in Google Password Manager, changing screen locks or biometric settings, performing factory resets, disabling Find My Device, modifying theft protection features, and adding or removing Google Accounts. The enhanced security measures follow recent updates to Google’s Password Manager, which has seen significant security enhancements over the past year.
Identity Check provides additional security for Google Accounts by requiring biometric authentication for actions that could potentially compromise account security. The feature helps prevent unauthorized individuals from taking control of any Google Account signed in on the device, addressing growing concerns about mobile device theft and unauthorized access.
Currently, the feature is available on Google Pixel phones running Android 15 and select Samsung Galaxy devices with One UI 7. Users can enable Identity Check by navigating to Settings > Google > All services > Theft protection > Identity Check. The implementation complements Samsung’s recent One UI 7 security enhancements.
The new feature integrates with Android’s broader theft protection capabilities, including the AI-powered Theft Detection Lock system. The system can identify potential theft events using sensor data, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth signals, automatically locking the screen to prevent unauthorized access. These capabilities are part of Android 15’s comprehensive security updates, which include enhanced passkey support and AI-driven protection measures.
Google is collaborating with GSMA on developing additional systems to address mobile device theft, with further details about this partnership expected to be announced in the future. The collaboration follows successful GSMA initiatives like the Open Gateway program, which has helped strengthen mobile security across networks.
Identity Check represents an expansion of Android’s security framework, implementing location-aware biometric authentication requirements to protect sensitive device functions and user data. The development reflects the growing importance of robust mobile security measures in an era of increasing sophisticated digital threats.
Sources: BleepingComputer, The Hacker News
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