Google has added intelligent theft detection features to Android in recent years. For years, theft protection on Android was more reactive than proactive, relying on traditional safeguards such as protecting the phone with a PIN, using location services and avoiding easily guessable passwords. Fortunately, anti-theft tools are now improving with the help of artificial intelligence and Google's integrated Theft Protection suite.
If someone snatches your phone, the new motion sensor theft detection will lock it quickly. If a thief disables the connection by removing the SIM card or activating Airplane Mode, the Offline Lock feature starts a countdown that locks the screen shortly afterwards. These features prevent annoying false positives through usage restrictions and active use checks.
There is no need to explore deep into device settings to find and activate theft protection measures. As long as the device is running Android 10 or later, the feature is included in Google Play Services. Some budget or entry-level smartphones running Android Go Edition with limited RAM, Android tablets and devices without the full suite of Google Play Services may not have some or all of the features in Google's security suite.
The main settings are found in Google's Theft Protection menu. Settings menus are not universal across Android phones, so there may be variations between devices. For Samsung users, the typical path is Settings → Security and privacy → Lost device protection → Theft protection. Google Pixel phones are similar but slightly different: Settings → Security and privacy → Device unlock → Theft protection.
The most prominent feature is Theft Detection Lock, recommended as a starting point. It uses motion indicators and sudden disconnection cues, such as when the phone is grabbed and moved rapidly, to automatically lock the screen. After enabling it and confirming, the device will respond to aggressive or sudden movements. Next, enable Offline Lock so the screen remains protected if a thief disables mobile data or Wi-Fi by turning on Airplane Mode; the lock activates shortly after disconnection without requiring a local connection. Finally, set up Remote Lock by visiting android.com/lock from any browser, enter your phone number and follow the instructions.
Use a PIN, biometry and a password more complicated than your first name to take full advantage of Theft Protection features. Google explicitly requires a screen lock for Identity Verification and other device protection tools. On Pixels and newer Android phones, Identity Verification can periodically verify using biometry or PIN, especially when you are outside your usual area.