On Android 16? Your phone has 2 critical security upgrades - enable them ASAP

"This feature was added in 2024, but it didn't receive much attention until the release of Android 16. What is Identity Check? Let's say you're away from home (which you've designated as a trusted location -- more on that in a bit). While you're gone, someone gains access to your phone and either goes to make changes to critical security settings or attempts to access saved passwords or other sensitive information. Because the phone is away from your trusted location, when that person tries to make those changes, biometric authentication will prevent them from accessing those features or data."

"Here's the thing about Identity Check: It's not easy to find. The best way to locate the feature is to open the Settings app and search for "identity check." Once on the Identity Check page, you can enable the feature (it should be enabled by default) and add a trusted location. Once you've added a trusted location, biometrics won't be required for that particular place."

"Although Google's earlier-than-expected release of Android 16 was missing a few important features, the updated OS delivers improved security that every Android user would be well advised to enable. Also: How to clear your Android phone cache (and why it makes such a big difference) I'll explain these two key security features and how to find and enable them."

Android 16 delivers stronger default protections through features such as Identity Check and Advanced Protection. Identity Check requires biometric authentication for sensitive actions when the device is outside designated trusted locations, preventing unauthorized changes to security settings and access to saved passwords. Users can add trusted locations to bypass biometrics, though opting out preserves stricter security. Advanced Protection provides additional defenses against malicious apps, unsafe networks, and scam attempts. The Settings app search for 'identity check' locates the feature, which should be enabled by default. Enabling these protections enhances device security and reduces risk from physical access and network-based threats.

Read at ZDNET