Android 15 theft detection lock activates on benign movements
Google's Android 15 theft detection feature, which automatically locks devices when it senses movements typical of theft, reportedly activates frequently on benign motions like walking quickly or moving on public transport, causing user frustration.
What happened
Android 15's Theft Detection Lock, introduced in October 2024, uses machine learning and accelerometer data to automatically lock devices when it detects movements associated with theft, such as sudden violent jerking.
Multiple users reported on Reddit that the feature activates frequently without valid reason, locking their devices during normal activities like walking quickly or sitting on public transport.
Reported impact
Users described the false alarms as frustrating and disruptive to daily use, with one reporting the lock activating multiple times per day during ordinary activities.
Index analysis
Early testing reportedly showed the protection struggled to detect genuine theft attempts and was initially too lenient. Google may have adjusted the algorithm to be more sensitive, potentially making it overly reactive to benign movements.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.