Android Security
Multiple layers of security, right out of the box
Download with confidence
Tested multiple ways before apps see the light of Play
All Android apps undergo rigorous security testing before appearing in the Google Play Store. We vet every app developer in Google Play and suspend those who violate our policies. So even before you install an app, you know we’ve checked that it’s safe.
Security on watch for your apps
Even after you’ve installed an app, built-in software regularly scans your device to ensure that app is behaving. If the app steps out of line, you’ll be notified and Google Play can automatically block it, lickety-split.
Strength through transparency and choice
Working together to keep you safe
When you shop at a merchant, Android Pay doesn’t send your actual credit or debit card number with your payment. Instead we use a virtual account number to represent your account information — so your card details stay safe.
Choose the best phone for you
We partner with hundreds of manufacturers, which allows for all kinds of Android device specialisation, but all meeting our high security requirements. So you get to choose your device with confidence from thousands of options.
Safe. Secure. Sandboxed.
Just like the walls of a sandbox keep sand from getting out, each Android app is housed in a virtual sandbox that helps keep your personal data safe. This way, apps you install won’t be able to access information like photos or your location unless you give them permission. It’s your privacy, so we put you in control.
Device security built right in
Protect your phone, even if you lose it
Anybody can lose their phone, but rest assured. With Android Device Manager, you can remotely locate any lost device associated with your Google account, all while keeping your data safe and sound. You can even set a lock screen or erase all data on your device if it’s stolen or lost for good. Crisis averted.
Set the perfect password: your fingerprint
On compatible devices with Android Marshmallow, your fingerprint can unlock your phone, let you securely sign into apps, and let you make purchases on Android Pay and the Play Store. Best of all, protecting your device takes just the tap of your finger.
Built-in encryption
With full-disk encryption, all data that exists on your device is fully protected. And any new data, such as emails and text messages, are automatically encrypted when stored locally on your device.
Tips for staying safe
First, make sure you’re downloading all apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. Verify Apps, which scans all apps for malware before and after you install them, is automatically enabled on your device. If you’ve turned Verify Apps off and would like to reactivate it, follow these instructions:
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Find Google settings in one of these places (depending on your device):
- A separate app called Google Settings
- In your main Settings app, scroll down and select Google
- Select Security.
- Under Verify Apps, turn on Scan device for security threats.
For more information, visit the Help Center.
There are several ways to prevent anyone other than you from using your device.
First, set a screen lock. If your device falls into the wrong hands while you have a screen lock set, it can’t be used unless your screen is unlocked. Next, add your Google account on your device. That way if your device is stolen and wiped, the bad guys can’t factory reset your device.
For more information, visit the Help Center.
If your device is lost or stolen, Android Device Manager can help remotely locate your device, or even remotely lock, ring, or erase all of your data.
To get started, you need first to activate Android Device Manager. It’s simple and can be done right from your settings app - no downloads required.
For more information, visit the Help Center.
You can help protect your device by updating your security settings. If you’re not familiar with the Settings app, it’s easy to hop in and start exploring. Here’s how:
- Open your device's Settings app.
- Scroll down to Security and select it to manage settings ranging from screen security to encryption to device administration.
For more information on each individual setting, visit the Help Center.
Nexus and some of the newer Android devices receive monthly security updates. You can find when the last security update was released by following these steps.
- Open your device's Settings app.
- Scroll to the bottom and touch About phone or About tablet > Android security patch level.
- The date displayed is when the last security update was released.
For more information on how to check the version of Android you’re running, visit the Help Center.
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