Since this security enhancement is delivered through Google Play services rather than requiring a full operating system update, it will likely reach a significantly broader range of Android devices across various manufacturers and Android versions. The release notes for Google Play services version 25.14, under the Security & Privacy section, state that “Your device automatically restarts if locked for 3 consecutive days. This type of system-level reboot command is similar to what the new security feature implements, though the actual implementation occurs via Google Play services rather than requiring developer intervention. This new auto-restart feature, included in the latest Google Play services update (version 25.14), represents an important step forward in protecting user data from unauthorized access. The feature appears to be implemented as a system-level change enabled by default within the Privacy & Security section of Google Play services. With the latest Google Play services update, Android devices will now automatically restart if they remain locked for three consecutive days (72 hours), 9 to 5 Google noticed. “While gaining access to a smartphone in the BFU state is still theoretically possible, it presents a far greater challenge for malicious entities,” notes security experts analyzing the new feature. Google Play Services 25.14 is being rolled out and should reach most Android devices over the coming weeks. ” This enhancement arrives as part of Google Play services 25.14.32, which began rolling out to devices on April 8, 2025. This security feature is specifically designed for Android phones and tablets, excluding other device categories such as Android Auto, TV, and WearOS. The technical foundation of this security feature relies on the concept of “Before First Unlock” (BFU) state. In contrast, devices in the “After First Unlock” (AFU) state – when a user has already authenticated with their PIN – may be more vulnerable to sophisticated data extraction techniques.
This Cyber News was published on cybersecuritynews.com. Publication date: Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:35:12 +0000