In a significant move to bolster Android security, Google is rolling out its Identity Check feature to Pixel devices. This feature, also arriving on Samsung One UI 7 devices soon, adds an extra layer of protection by requiring explicit biometric authentication for sensitive actions and settings when you're outside trusted locations.
What is Identity Check?
Identity Check is a security feature that strengthens your phone's defense against unauthorized access. When enabled, it necessitates biometric verification (fingerprint, face unlock, etc.) to perform specific actions, even if someone knows your PIN or pattern.
When Does Identity Check Activate?
Identity Check comes into play when you attempt to:
- Access saved passwords and passkeys using Google Password Manager.
- Autofill passwords from Google Password Manager in apps (excluding Chrome).
- Modify your screen lock (PIN, pattern, password).
- Make changes to biometrics (fingerprint, face unlock).
- Perform a factory reset.
Disable Find My Device.
Deactivate theft protection features.
View or remove trusted locations.
Turn off Identity Check itself.
Set up a new device using your current device.
Add or remove a Google Account.
Access Developer options.
Enhanced Google Account Protection:
Identity Check also bolsters Google Account protection, making it considerably more challenging for unauthorized individuals to gain control of accounts signed in on your device. Samsung One UI 7 devices benefit from additional security measures for Samsung Accounts as well.
Important Considerations:
- To utilize Identity Check, you'll need a class 3 biometrics Android device and designate at least one trusted location (Home, Work, etc.) within Settings.
- Google is currently rolling out Identity Check to Pixel devices running Android 15 with the latest Play services version. Following Samsung, other compatible Android devices will receive it later in 2025.
How to Activate Identity Check:
On Pixel devices:
- Go to Settings.
- Navigate to Security & privacy.
- Select Device unlock.
- Choose Theft protection.
- Enable Identity Check.
Alternatively:
- Go to Settings.
- Select Google.
- Choose All services.
- Select Theft protection.
- Activate Identity Check.
Additional Security Feature: Theft Detection Lock
This past year, Google introduced Theft Detection Lock, which the company confirms has now fully rolled out to Android 10 and above devices globally.
Conclusion:
Identity Check signifies a significant stride towards fortifying Android security. By requiring biometric authentication for critical actions outside trusted locations, it adds a vital layer of defense against unauthorized access. Pixel users can leverage it right away, with Samsung One UI 7 devices to follow shortly. Other compatible Android devices will gain access later this year.
إرسال تعليق