Google Rolls Out New Feature That Can Prevent Theft Even If the Phone is Unlocked

Google has officially started rolling out its new Identity Check feature for Android, with Pixel devices running Android 15 being the first to receive the update. Announced last week, this security enhancement adds an extra layer of protection by requiring biometric verification before users can access certain sensitive settings when they are outside their designated trusted locations.

What is Android’s New Identity Check Feature?

The Identity Check feature allows users to specify trusted locations where they can access sensitive device settings without additional authentication. However, when outside these trusted areas, biometric authentication will be required to prevent unauthorized access.

According to Google, Identity Check will prompt biometric verification for various actions when outside a trusted location. This includes managing Google accounts, setting up a new device using the current one, disabling Identity Check, modifying trusted places, turning off Theft Protection features, disabling Find My Device, performing a factory reset, changing biometric data, and accessing passwords stored in Google Password Manager.

This feature complements other security tools such as Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, and Remote Lock, which are all designed to protect users from data theft or unauthorized access.

How to Enable Identity Check on Android 15

To enable Identity Check on a compatible Pixel phone, users must first ensure their device is updated to the latest Android version. They can then access the Settings app, navigate to the Google section, select All Services, and go to Theft Protection to enable the Identity Check feature. After signing into their Google account, they will need to set up a lock screen and biometrics if they haven’t already done so. Finally, users can designate their trusted locations, completing the setup process and activating the feature.

When Will Other Devices Get Identity Check?

The rollout is currently in progress for Pixel devices running Android 15, with Samsung phones expected to receive the feature in the coming weeks as part of One UI 7. Google has also indicated that the feature will become available for other eligible Android devices later this year, ensuring broader security improvements across a wider range of smartphones.