Why You Should Try Advanced Protection on Android 16

• Android security
• Privacy protection
• Mobile tips

Discover how Android 16’s Advanced Protection boosts your phone’s security with anti-theft, scam protection, and encrypted data.

Advanced Protection on Android 16: A Security Powerhouse

Android 16 introduces a host of powerful security and privacy features designed to safeguard users against a wide array of cyber threats. Chief among these is the Advanced Protection Program, which consolidates multiple security settings into one robust solution. Whether you're a journalist, activist, or simply someone concerned about your privacy, this tool is worth exploring.

What Is Advanced Protection?

Advanced Protection on Android 16 makes high-level security the default for your device. It enables essential features automatically and prevents users from disabling them. This minimises the risk of accidental exposure or compromise of your sensitive data.

Some of the key functions include:

• Auto-rebooting the device if it's been locked for 72 hours
• Encrypting data with biometrics or a secure PIN
• Blocking USB data access when the phone is locked
• Preventing automatic reconnection to unsecured Wi-Fi networks

Security Features You Get Automatically

When you enable Advanced Protection, several other features are also turned on by default:

• Theft detection
• HTTPS enforced on Chrome for all web browsing
• Scam and spam message protection
• Google Play Protect and Android Safe Browsing always enabled

While you can activate these features individually, Advanced Protection saves you time by enabling them all at once—and ensures they stay on.

Potential Drawbacks

Of course, with stronger protection comes some trade-offs. Advanced Protection limits side-loading of apps, allowing installations only from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. This is a deliberate safeguard against malicious apps that could carry malware.

Additionally, the JavaScript optimiser in Chrome is disabled, which could cause some websites to display incorrectly. For most users, these limitations will be minimal compared to the security benefits.

Comparing to Apple’s Lockdown Mode

Advanced Protection is Google's answer to Apple's Lockdown Mode, aimed at users who face higher digital threats. Both systems block certain functionalities to harden the device against attacks. However, while Lockdown Mode is often seen as extreme, Google's implementation is versatile enough for privacy-minded users who still need usability.

Should You Use It?

The Electronic Frontier Foundation recommends giving Advanced Protection a try. It’s easy to enable and disable, offering a hassle-free way to boost your device’s security. Even if you find some features unnecessary, you can always turn it off without much impact.

For everyday users, it’s a good way to get familiar with Android 16’s broader security features—without making permanent changes. Just remember, best practices like avoiding unknown sources and keeping apps updated still apply.

How to Enable Advanced Protection

To activate Advanced Protection:

• Open the Settings app
• Navigate to Security & privacy > Advanced Protection
• Toggle Device protection on
• Tap Turn on and restart your device

That’s it. Your Android 16 device will now benefit from an extra layer of robust security.