How Do I Access Android Security?
Google has offered a similar setup of security-based settings on your phone for years. Android 12 is the first version of the operating system to bring it together in an easy-to-use interface. To access the Security Hub, open Settings > Security. You may need to scroll down to get the Security menu. On Pixel devices, it’s usually above the Privacy option. However, the exact lineup of settings may change depending on which Pixel device you use. At the moment, it is unclear if other phone manufacturers will also include a version of the Security Hub within their versions of Android 12.
What Can I Control in the Security Hub?
The Security Hub includes a handy graphic to alert you to any possible safety issues on your device. Each section also includes a new icon set that will quickly draw your attention to problems. Green checkmarks mean you don’t have to worry about any issues, while yellow exclamation points notate things you should look at soon. Here is a rough breakdown of all the settings you can control from the Security Hub in Android 12:
App Security
This section is where you’ll scan for malicious applications. You can tap on App Security to begin a scan at any point. If your phone detects any issues, it will alert you.
Find My Device
You can use Find My Device to locate your Android 12 device should it ever go missing. Tapping on this selection will allow you to toggle the feature on and off, as well as give you easy links to access the Find My Device service on your phone or the web.
Security Update
Tapping this option will let you check for important Android 12 operating system updates. These updates typically consist of various fixes for possible exploits found in the system.
Screen Lock
You can easily change what screen lock you use—or disable it altogether—by tapping on this option. Several screen locks are available, including Swipe, Pattern, Pin, and Password.
Pixel Imprint
Pixel Imprint is where you control the fingerprints registered to your system. Selecting this setting allows you to add new fingerprints or delete ones you no longer need.
Google Security Checkup
Tapping on this option will show you several features you can use to ensure your Google account is secure. Options include 2-step verification, toggles to enable or disable Google Play Protect, as well as recent security activity from the last 28 days. You can also control third-party app access in this menu, as well as the passwords saved to your Google account.
Google Play System Update
You can check for updates to the Google Play Store by selecting this option. Google is continually releasing changes for the Play Store, which will help ensure you’re running the most recent version.
Advanced Settings
Users who want fine-tuned control of Device admin applications or to enable Smart Lock can access those options from the Advanced Settings menu. You can also confirm SIM deletion from this area too.
