Google adds Android auto-reboot to block forensic data extractions

Google is rolling out a new security mechanism on Android devices that will automatically reboot locked, unused devices after three consecutive days of inactivity, restoring memory to an encrypted state. Although the tech giant has not commented on the exact motives behind the addition of this feature, it is expected to make data extraction by advanced forensic tools harder by bringing devices into a non-exploitable state more often. Auto-reboots after 3 days The new auto-reboot feature was listed in the latest Google Play services update (v25.14), under 'Security & Privacy.' "With this feature, your device automatically restarts if locked for 3 consecutive days," read the release notes. In January 2024, the developers behind the privacy-centric GrapheneOS warned of firmware flaws in Android that digital forensic companies are leveraging to extract data without the user's authorization. When an Android phone is first started, it enters a Before First Unlock (BFU) state, where mos ... Read full article.