TECH FEATURE: The Android Setting That Can Lock Out Phone Thieves

A stolen phone can expose messages, photographs and financial information. Google’s Theft Detection Lock offers an extra layer of protection—and it may already be available on your Android phone.

The feature uses artificial intelligence and device sensors to recognise movements associated with a phone being snatched. If it detects a possible theft while the phone is unlocked, it automatically locks the screen, making personal information harder to access. It cannot detect every theft.

To check availability, open Settings, select Google, then All services and Theft protection. Turn on Theft Detection Lock if supported. A greyed-out switch means the device does not support it.

Another option, Offline Device Lock, can lock an unlocked phone after it loses internet access and continues being used offline.

For Nigerian users, these settings offer practical protection without buying another device. Check which features your phone supports and enable them before you need them.