{"id":21514,"date":"2026-07-13T11:05:16","date_gmt":"2026-07-13T15:05:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.psafe.com\/en\/blog\/?p=21514"},"modified":"2026-07-13T11:25:29","modified_gmt":"2026-07-13T15:25:29","slug":"android-17-security-privacy-settings","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.psafe.com\/en\/blog\/android-17-security-privacy-settings\/","title":{"rendered":"Android 17: 7 Security and Privacy Features You Should Turn On"},"content":{"rendered":"

Android 17 introduces new security and privacy features designed to limit unnecessary access and make it harder for someone else to get into your phone. The update rolled out first to Pixel devices and will reach other eligible phones throughout 2026, depending on each manufacturer\u2019s schedule.<\/span>
\n<\/span>Some changes work automatically. Others need to be turned on or checked in Settings. Menu names may also vary across Samsung, Motorola, Xiaomi, and other Android brands.<\/span><\/p>\n

One built-in protection delays access to one-time passcodes received by SMS for up to <\/span>three hours<\/b> for most apps targeting Android 17. That makes it harder for unauthorized apps to intercept codes used to sign in to your accounts.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why You Should Review Your Android 17 Settings<\/b><\/h2>\n

Updating your phone doesn\u2019t mean every protection is automatically configured for the way you use it. Anti-theft tools may depend on biometrics, a verified phone number, location services, and an active Google Account connection.<\/span><\/p>\n

You should also review older permissions. An app you installed months ago may still have access to your camera, microphone, contacts, or location\u2014even if it no longer needs that access.<\/span><\/p>\n

Google\u2019s<\/span> official Android 17 announcement<\/span><\/a> highlights stronger data controls and new protections for lost or stolen devices.<\/span><\/p>\n

7 Android 17 Security and Privacy Features to Check<\/b><\/h2>\n

1. Advanced Protection<\/b><\/h3>\n

Advanced Protection combines several security layers in one setting. It blocks app installations from unknown sources, keeps Google Play Protect enabled, and may restrict USB data connections when your phone is locked.<\/span><\/p>\n

Go to <\/span>Settings > Security & privacy > Advanced Protection<\/b>. This is especially useful if you store documents, work accounts, or financial apps on your phone. Google\u2019s<\/span> Advanced Protection guide<\/span><\/a> explains what\u2019s included.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Theft Detection Lock<\/b><\/h3>\n

Theft Detection Lock uses your phone\u2019s sensors to recognize movements that may indicate someone grabbed the device from your hand. When Android detects a possible theft attempt, it automatically locks the screen.<\/span><\/p>\n

You\u2019ll usually find it under <\/span>Settings > Google > All services > Theft protection<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Remote Lock<\/b><\/h3>\n

Remote Lock lets you secure your phone online using a verified phone number. It can help when you lose your device and can\u2019t immediately sign in to your Google Account.<\/span><\/p>\n

Check now that your phone number is correct and that screen lock is enabled. Google\u2019s<\/span> theft protection guide<\/span><\/a> lists the requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n

4. Find Hub and \u201cMark as Lost\u201d<\/b><\/h3>\n

On Android 17, \u201cMark as lost\u201d can require biometric authentication before the device can be unlocked again. It can also hide Quick Settings and prevent new Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections.<\/span><\/p>\n

That makes it harder for someone to disable tracking, even if they know your PIN. Make sure Find Hub is enabled before you need it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Read more:<\/b> Why Updating Android Helps Protect Your Phone, Even When Nothing Looks Different<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

5. Temporary Precise Location<\/b><\/h3>\n

Android 17 lets you share your precise location only while a specific app is open. This works well for quick tasks, such as requesting a ride or finding a nearby business, without allowing continuous tracking.<\/span><\/p>\n

A new indicator also shows when your location is being used and which apps recently accessed it.<\/span><\/p>\n

6. Selective Contact Sharing<\/b><\/h3>\n

Instead of giving an app access to your entire address book, you can choose only the contacts you want to share.<\/span><\/p>\n

The new contact picker limits exposure of phone numbers and email addresses. Still, developers must support it. Review each request before tapping \u201cAllow,\u201d and share only the contacts the app actually needs.<\/span><\/p>\n

7. Google Play Protect and Threat Detection<\/b><\/h3>\n

Android 17 expands detection for apps that hide icons, forward messages, or abuse accessibility permissions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Open the Play Store, tap your profile picture, and select <\/span>Play Protect<\/b>. Keep app scanning enabled and pay attention to system warnings. Google\u2019s<\/span> Play Protect support page<\/span><\/a> explains how the scans work.<\/span><\/p>\n

How to Strengthen Protection Against Loss or Theft<\/b><\/h2>\n

Along with Android\u2019s built-in tools, use a strong screen lock, set up biometrics, and keep your phone\u2019s IMEI number somewhere safe.<\/span><\/p>\n

In the U.S., the<\/span> FCC recommends<\/span><\/a> immediately reporting a lost or stolen phone to your wireless carrier. Your carrier can suspend service and may use the IMEI to block the device from its network.<\/span><\/p>\n

Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><\/h2>\n

Will every phone get Android 17?<\/b><\/h3>\n

No. Availability depends on the model, manufacturer, and how long the company provides software support for that device.<\/span><\/p>\n

Are all seven features turned on automatically?<\/b><\/h3>\n

Some may be enabled by default, while others require biometrics, a verified phone number, or manual setup. Review your security menus after updating.<\/span><\/p>\n

Is installing Android 17 enough to protect your phone?<\/b><\/h3>\n

No. Updates fix vulnerabilities and add new defenses, but they still need to be combined with strong passwords, limited permissions, and careful app installation.<\/span><\/p>\n

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