Latest news with #AdvancedProtection
Android Authority
a day ago
- General
- Android Authority
Google starts letting Android 16 testers try Advanced Protection mode for maximum phone security
Joe Maring / Android Authority TL;DR Google is beginning to introduce the Advanced Protection mode feature to users on Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1. Advanced Protection is a one-click toggle for enhanced security measures on the entire device, including theft protection, network security, app restrictions, and more. Once Advanced Security is enabled, individual settings cannot be adjusted. Sometimes your worst enemy is yourself. Or maybe you just want some extra protection on your device to keep you and your data safe from other, more malicious hands. Either way, one can never have too much protection, especially when our lives are on our phones, and Google's Advanced Protection mode in Android 16 is a valuable tool to keep you safe. If you're currently testing Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, then you should be getting access to the new Advanced Protection feature (we previewed it in an APK teardown) that Google is rolling out to users (Thanks: @AyushmaanT on Telegram). This is a one-click toggle that will turn on several of the highest tier security settings on the device, and once enabled, there is no way to adjust the individual security settings. It's like a security blanket that aims to make sure your device is safe from known threats, like no sideloading, USB data access, and more. Of course, even though this mode ensures that users have the safest experience with their device, it's not on by default. Users have to opt in themselves, but that's not too hard to do. If you want to enable Advanced Protection, go to the Settings app on your device, select Personal & device safety, and find the Advanced Protection page. Switch the toggle for device protection to on. Once Advanced Protection is on, those security protocols cannot be adjusted, so it's basically one-size-fits-all for your device's safety. There are a few different categories of protection too, so here's a brief overview of each one. Device Safety: Protects your device from theft, confiscation, and even blocks USB data transfers. Protects your device from theft, confiscation, and even blocks USB data transfers. Apps: Keeps your device safe from unknown, potentially malicious apps, and also prevents apps from corrupting device memory. Keeps your device safe from unknown, potentially malicious apps, and also prevents apps from corrupting device memory. Network and Wi-Fi: This blocks all unsecured connections, including 2G and WEP. However, 2G will still be available for emergency calling only. It also prevents the device from automatically reconnecting to insecure networks. This blocks all unsecured connections, including 2G and WEP. However, 2G will still be available for emergency calling only. It also prevents the device from automatically reconnecting to insecure networks. Web: Safeguards your phone from malicious websites, Chrome enforces HTTPS for all website connections when possible, and prevents Javascript from running. Safeguards your phone from malicious websites, Chrome enforces HTTPS for all website connections when possible, and prevents Javascript from running. Phone by Google: There are several safety measures here to prevent spam and scam calls from reaching you. There are several safety measures here to prevent spam and scam calls from reaching you. Messages by Google: Similar to Phone, it adds extra protection against spam and scams. Individually, these are not new security settings — they've already existed as an option on Android for a while. But with Advanced Protection, all of these will be on and the user cannot adjust them in any way. Like mentioned earlier, we can be our own worst enemy, and this mode helps keep us safe from — well — ourselves, as well as other malicious forces. Google does have an API that third-party apps can utilize to detect when Advanced Protection is on, but it's up to individual developers to use it. When they do, then they can add their own security features in addition to the default settings. If you're currently on Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, you should start seeing the option for Advanced Protection on your device, if you haven't already. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
The Sun
19-05-2025
- The Sun
Google offers secret VIP ‘protection mode' on millions of mobiles for free – it's meant for celebs to avoid being hacked
Sean Keach, Head of Technology and Science Published: Invalid Date, MILLIONS of phone owners can take advantage of a special "protection" mode used by VIPs to avoid being hacked. It's called Advanced Protection and anyone can use it for free – though it's built for celebs, politicians, and other important figures. Protection features were first launched in 2017, but the system has been upgraded in the new Android 16 update. It has special tricks like preventing your phone from being hacked by a physical cable, and using AI to detect scam call and text conversations live as they're happening. The feature activates a long list of hardcore security measures designed to boost your security and dodge scams. "Android 16 enhances and expands the Advanced Protection features that Google first launched in 2017," said Google's Stella Loh. "Making it simple to turn on an array of robust device security features." Stella, who works on the Android team, added: "Whether you're a public figure or just want the best of Android's powerful security features, you can turn on Advanced Protection for peace of mind that you're protected against the most sophisticated threats." WHAT IS GOOGLE'S ADVANCED PROTECTION PROGRAM? Google is the company behind the Android software that powers billions of phones around the world. And there's a special feature called the Advanced Protection. Google says that this serves up its "strongest protections against targeted attacks". "Advanced Protection ensures all of Android's highest security features are enabled and are seamlessly working together to safeguard you against online attacks, harmful apps, and data risks," Google explained. Deepfakes more 'sophisticated' and dangerous than ever as AI expert warns of six upgrades that let them trick your eyes To get all the latest protections, you'll need Android 16. That's currently out in beta version, which you can try for free today. Or you can wait for a full release, which may take several months to turn up on your mobile. Once you've got the latest Android update, go into Settings. 4 HOW TO UPDATE YOUR ANDROID PHONE Get the latest upgrades... Updating your Android phone is extremely important. For a start, it means you'll get fancy new features to make your phone better. But updates often include fixes that can repair security problems – or help you to stay safe from crooks. You can check what software version you have by going into Settings > About Phone > Android Version. And if you want to update, you can just go to Settings > System > Software Update. Note that your Android phone will probably have worse battery life in the days following an update – but it should get better. Picture Credit: Google Then go to Settings > Google > Personal & Device Safety > Advanced Protection > Device Protection. From there, you'll be able to see a list of all of the features that are activated once you toggle the setting on. For instance, there's a Theft Detection Lock that means your phone automatically locks itself if it detects "suspicious activity indicative of theft". Your phone will also lock itself if it goes offline for a prolonged period. ADVANCED PROTECTION – GOOGLE'S WORD ON IT Here's what Google says Advanced Protection serves up... Best-in-class protection, minimal disruption: Advanced Protection gives users the option to equip their devices with Android's most effective security features for proactive defense, with a user-friendly and low-friction experience. Easy activation: Advanced Protection makes security easy and accessible. You don't need to be a security expert to benefit from enhanced security. Defense-in-depth: Once a user turns on Advanced Protection, the system prevents accidental or malicious disablement of the individual security features under the Advanced Protection umbrella. This reflects a "defense-in-depth" strategy, where multiple security layers work together. Seamless security integration with apps: Advanced Protection acts as a single control point that enables important security settings across many of your favorite Google apps, including Chrome, Google Message, and Phone by Google. Advanced Protection will also incorporate third-party applications that choose to integrate in the future. Picture Credit: Google There's a USB Protection that prevents "physical attacks" using your phone's charging port. Safe Browsing modes block dangerous websites for you. And there are special AI-powered scam detection tools for both phone calls and text messages that flag up if you're being swindled in real-time. The feature also blocks you from connecting to outdated 2G phone networks, and won't automatically reconnect to Wi-Fi networks "known to be insecure" either. GOOGLE'S 'GOLDEN RULES' FOR AVOIDING SCAMS Here are the official Google "golden rules #1 – Slow it down Scams are often designed to create a sense of urgency. Take time to ask questions and think it through. #2 – Spot check Do your research to double check the details you are getting. Does what they're telling you make sense? #3 – Stop! Don't send No reputable person or agency will ever demand payment or your personal information on the spot. Some of the features won't arrive until "later this year", according to Google.
GSM Arena
15-05-2025
- GSM Arena
Google is making Android 16 significantly more secure and fraud-resistant
Google is implementing new security features and bringing older ones under the Advanced Protection Program with Android 16. The goal is to improve the device's security and protect people from scammers, especially high-risk groups like journalists and high-ranking officials. The best part is that all of the security features are activated once Advanced Protection is activated, which basically requires you to tap on a toggle to turn it on. You don't need to have any sort of expertise in the field. In fact, the enabled security features cannot be turned off easily as that action would require user credentials. Security features that involve apps will be available only to Google apps before expanding to third-party software. With Android 16, users will have access to secure device logs that cannot be edited and can only be accessed by the user. During a call, the system blocks risky actions that are easily exploited by scammers. For instance, you won't be able to turn off Google Play Protect, you cannot install unverified apps from browsers or messaging apps or grant apps permissions to take control of the device's core functionalities. Android 16 will also elevate the security of banking apps. Google is working closely with UK banks for now such as Monzo, NatWest and Revolut. During a screen sharing session, the system would prompt the user to end the call when launching a banking app as this is one of the most common ways for fraudsters to extract sensitive information from users. Google is also leveraging AI to filter out scam and spam messages when using Google's default Messages app. The AI will also spot malicious on-device activity by apps, as some try to hide or change icons. The machine-learning algorithm constantly scans for text or binary patterns to spot potential malware. The new features will coexist with older ones like Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock. Source
Time of India
14-05-2025
- Time of India
'If are not on Android already...': Google has a message for iPhone users
Google's Android 16 will feature an Advanced Protection security suite, offering enhanced safeguards against cyber threats, especially for high-risk users. This includes a central security setting to enable top-tier functionalities and an industry-first Intrusion Logging feature for forensic analysis. The suite provides a unified control point across Google apps, with plans to include third-party applications. At The Android Show, Google unveiled its Advanced Protection security suite, designed specifically for Android 16. Building on its existing security infrastructure, this new suite introduces enhanced safeguards against sophisticated cyber threats. It also includes specialized features tailored for high-risk users—such as journalists, elected officials, and public figures—offering them stronger protection. During the announcement, Google didn't miss the chance to throw a little shade at iPhone users, encouraging them to 'embrace Android' for better security. "This is just one of many Android security features we're investing in, like theft protection, real-time malware scanning, and platform-level fraud detection to help keep you safe," said Stella Loh, senior product manager of Android Platform, while "And that's why Android smartphones scored highest for built-in security features and anti-fraud efficacy in a recent study," she added, saying, "So if any of you aren't on Android already, think about switching to the platform that helps shut down scammers." What security features are coming to Android 16 Android Security Group Product Manager Il-Sung Lee announced that the Advanced Protection programme introduces a central security setting. This setting allows users to enable and secure Android's top-tier security functionalities. Lee stated that the feature provides "Google's strongest security for mobile devices" for both at-risk individuals and those who prioritise security. A notable new capability is Intrusion Logging, described as an "industry-first." This feature securely and privately backs up device logs in a way that prevents tampering. This supports users in performing forensic analysis if they suspect their device has been compromised. The system utilises a multi-layered security approach, referred to as "defense-in-depth." This strategy ensures that multiple security layers work together, helping to prevent security features within Advanced Protection from being disabled accidentally or maliciously. Advanced Protection serves as a unified control point, managing important security configurations across various Google applications, including Chrome, Google Messages, and Phone by Google. Google also indicated plans to include third-party applications in the future, provided they integrate with the system. Lee explained that the suite functions as "a single control point that enables important security settings across many of your favorite Google apps." The Advanced Protection feature will be accessible on devices running the Android 16 operating system. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Indian Express
14-05-2025
- Indian Express
Google brings Advanced Protection mode to Android 16: Here's how to enable it
Google's most advanced set of security features will be natively available within the latest version of Android. Alongside the launch of Android 16, Google announced that users will be able to access its core suite of enhanced security features by activating Advanced Protection. The new mode was unveiled at The Android Show, a virtual event held by Google on Tuesday, May 13, just days ahead of its annual I/O developer conference. 'Android 16 enhances and expands the Advanced Protection features that Google first launched in 2017, making it simple to turn on an array of robust device security features,' Il-Sung Lee, Group Product Manager, Android Security, wrote in a blog post. 'Whether you're a public figure or just want the best of Android's powerful security features, you can turn on Advanced Protection for peace of mind that you're protected against the most sophisticated threats,' he added. Google also said that additional Advanced Protection features like Intrusion Logging and USB protection will become available later this year. Advanced Protection is an enrollment programme that has been set up by Google for Android users who are at high risk of being targeted by sophisticated hackers such as public figures, journalists, and activists. It offers additional safeguards to prevent unauthorised access to a user's Google account. The newly unveiled Advanced Protection within Android 16 comprises a handful of pre-existing security features as well as newer capabilities to boost a user's security profile. 'Advanced Protection acts as a single control point that enables important security settings across many of your favorite Google apps, including Chrome, Google Message, and Phone by Google,' the company said. Once Advanced Protection is turned on by the user, the individual security features cannot be disabled accidentally or by malicious actors who may have gained unauthorised access to the device. 'This reflects a 'defense-in-depth' strategy, where multiple security layers work together,' it added. Third-party apps will also be brought under the Advanced Protection umbrella in the future, as per Google. As part of Advanced Protection, Android 16 users will have access to an array of security features spanning various layers, including the device-level, apps, messages, web, network, and more. Here are the following security features managed by Advanced Protection: – Intrusion logging: This is a logging feature in the event that a user's device has been compromised by malicious software and needs to be inspected. These security logs are end-to-end encrypted and securely stored in the cloud, Google claimed. It is a new feature that is automatically activated when Advanced Protection is turned on. Intrusion logging will be available later this year. – Disable auto-reconnect to insecure networks: Once this feature is enabled, a user's device will no longer automatically reconnect to Wi-Fi networks known to be insecure. It is a new feature activated for Advanced Protection and will be available later this year. – Inactivity Reboot: This will automatically restart your device if locked for 72 hours. It is an existing on by-default feature that cannot be disabled with Advanced Protection. – Google Play Protect: This is another feature that is already available for users enrolled in the Google Advanced Protection Program. It is a malware and unwanted software protection feature built into Android. – Android Safe Browsing: It protects users from fast-emerging malicious websites. Safe Browsing is an existing on by-default feature that cannot be disabled with Advanced Protection. – Spam & Scam Protection: This feature helps users avoid unwanted and potentially harmful messages on Google messages. It is an existing on by-default feature that cannot be disabled with Advanced Protection. – Caller ID & Spam: It displays numbers in Phone by Google as spam before a user answers the call. This is also an existing on by-default feature that cannot be disabled with Advanced Protection. Other features such as Theft Detection Lock, Offline Device Lock, USB Protection, Unknown Apps, Memory Tagging Extension (MTE), Chrome Browsing, Javascript Protections, Unsafe Links, Automatic Call Screen, Scam Detection for Phone by Google, and 2G Network Protection can also be turned on using Advanced Protection. But they cannot be disabled individually. To be sure, some of these Advanced Protection features such as USB Protection, 2G Network Protection, and Memory Tagging Extension (prevents apps from corrupting memory) varies based on the manufacturer of the Android-powered device. Advanced Protection is disabled by default in Android. In order to turn it on, follow these steps: – Ensure you have an Android phone or tablet that is running Android 16. – Open the Settings app – Find Google settings – Go to Personal & device safety category – Look for the Advanced Protection page under this category – Toggle 'device protection' to enable the Advanced Protection mode If you want to enroll for Google's Advanced Protection Program, tap 'account protection' to open the enrollment page.
