Google has released a new feature called Identity Check for supported Android devices, which locks sensitive settings behind biometric authentication when it detects untrusted locations.
See also: Android becomes more secure with Google Identity Check
Identity Check is also designed to enable enhanced protection for Google Accounts to prevent unauthorized individuals from taking control of any Google Account connected to the device.
Currently, the feature is limited to Google Pixel phones with Android 15 and eligible Samsung Galaxy phones with One UI 7. It can be enabled by going to Settings > Google > All services > Theft protection > Authentication .
The revelation comes as Google adds a steady stream of security features to protect devices against theft, including Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock , and Remote Lock.
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Google also said it has rolled out the AI-powered Theft Detection Lock to all Android devices running Android 10 and above worldwide and that it is working with the GSMA and industry experts to combat mobile theft by sharing information, tools and prevention techniques.
Identity Check also follows the launch of the Chrome Web Store for Enterprises, allowing organizations to create a curated list of extensions that can be installed on employees' web browsers and minimizing the risk of users installing potentially harmful or untested add-ons.
Last month, a spear-phishing targeting Chrome extension developers was found to have injected malicious code to collect sensitive data, such as API keys, session cookies, and other authentication tokens from sites like ChatGPT and Facebook for Business.
The supply chain attack is said to have been active since at least December 2023, French cybersecurity firm Sekoia in a new analysis published this week.
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Mobile device theft is a growing concern in this age of technological advancement. These portable devices often contain sensitive personal data, such as photos, messages and financial information, making them particularly attractive to criminals. It is important to take preventive measures, such as using passwords, activating tracking software and regularly creating backups to protect data and prevent malicious actions in the event of loss or theft.
Source: thehackernews
