Google has launched a new security feature for Pixel devices running Android 15 to prevent thieves from accessing user digital accounts. The feature, called Identity Check, requires users to use biometric verification to access certain accounts and device settings when they are not in a trusted location, such as home or work.
"Stolen devices falling into the wrong hands can expose sensitive data, leaving you vulnerable to risks such as identity theft, financial fraud and privacy breaches." Google said in its blog post. Apple also launched Stolen Device Protection, a feature similar to Identity Check, amid reports that thieves monitored users entering iPhone passwords, stole the phones, and used the passwords to access users' private information and lock out users' Apple accounts.
According to a support document, settings protected by Android Identity Check include changing the device's PIN, disabling anti-theft protection, turning off Find My Device, factory resetting the device, and changing biometrics.
Google says Identity Check originally launched in beta late last year as part of December's Pixel Drop. The feature will also come to Samsung Galaxy devices that can use OneUI 7 "in the coming weeks" and to devices from other manufacturers "later this year."