Google’s recent updates to Android are set to enhance security for billions of mobile users, with a suite of new anti-theft features aimed at deterring mobile phone theft. Among these is a Theft
Detection Lock, which automatically locks the device if it’s taken and the thief attempts to run, bike, or drive away with it.
These advancements follow a landmark meeting between the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, and the Metropolitan Police Commissioner with global mobile companies, focusing on collaborative efforts to “design out” mobile phone theft.
The new Android features include various protective measures that make devices less attractive to thieves and provide more robust data protection for users. As part of his commitment to reducing mobile crime in London and beyond, the Mayor is continuing his work with the mobile industry to explore further solutions that could disrupt the illegal trade of stolen devices.
The Mayor recently visited Google’s London headquarters to view the advanced AI-based security innovations for Android phones. These updates include an automatic screen lock if the phone is snatched, alongside remote locking capabilities. These new security measures, built into Android’s operating system, will strengthen device protection and reduce the appeal of stolen phones on the black market.
This partnership, and the ongoing enhancements to mobile security, come as mobile phone theft has become a significant driver of crime in London. Recent data shows that over 33% of robberies in the city last year involved a stolen phone, equating to more than 11,800 incidents. Additionally, mobile phone theft accounted for 69% of all thefts in London during the same period.
In addition to dedicated police efforts to tackle these crimes, the Mayor praised Google’s new anti-theft features, which include a separate PIN-locked area for sensitive apps and AI-powered sensors to detect theft attempts. This Theft Detection Lock immediately locks the screen to block access to personal data if a device is stolen. Additionally, a new Remote Lock feature allows users to lock a device with just the phone number, a quick option for securing data in the immediate aftermath of theft.
The Mayor is urging Londoners to keep their Android devices updated with the latest security features and activate these settings to improve device protection. Alongside these efforts, he also supports Apple’s recent iOS 18 update, which makes it harder for stolen iPhones to be dismantled and sold for parts in the UK and internationally.
Mayor Khan continues to collaborate with major mobile companies, advocating for measures to disable all stolen phones, both in the UK and globally, as part of his commitment to reducing mobile theft across London.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “The theft of a mobile phone is hugely distressing and we are seeing numbers increase all around the world. While the Met are taking targeted action with patrols in London’s worst hotspots it is far too easy and profitable for criminals to repurpose and sell on expensive stolen phones.
“Last year I called on mobile companies to do what they can to ensure that their devices are not appealing to thieves, and I’m pleased that Google are introducing these important new security updates.
“We know there is much more still to be done to tackle this problem, but I am committed to continuing to work with the mobile phone industry and the Met to catch the criminals behind this appalling industry, as we build a safer London for everyone.”
Katie O'Donovan, Director of Public Policy for Google UK: “Android's new anti-theft features will give added security for billions of people, including Londoners. We were delighted to welcome the Mayor of London to Google today to demonstrate our commitment to device safety."
Annika Bizon, Director of Marketing, Omnichannel & Head of Ireland - MX Division, Samsung Electronics, said: “At Samsung, we are deeply committed to protecting the security and privacy of our Galaxy users. Working with Google we are giving users complete control over their devices, ensuring their data remains secure even when their device is not physically with them. We are striving to offer an even more secure user experience. Information about additional updates will be shared in the near future.”
Claire Waxman OBE, London’s Independent Victims’ Commissioner, said: “Mobile phone crime is an extremely traumatic experience for every victim and has a lasting impact far beyond the loss of personal possession. What’s worse is that it can really heighten victims’ fear of crime and leave them feeling vulnerable as they go about their daily lives.
“Our lives are on our phones, and they are a form of safety and comfort for people but taking someone’s device robs them of that security and leaves victims worrying about where their private data and information may end up.
“That’s why I welcome the update from Google today and the introduction of this new technology is a step in the right direction in enhancing security and protection for Android phone users and their data. It is clear though that more improvements need to be made which is why I support the Mayor’s action with the mobile industry to come up with further measures that can make stealing phones less attractive for thieves and put an end to the illegal trade in stolen mobile phones.” Photo by Google, Wikimedia commons.