How do I activate device protection on my Xperia device?

You have to meet three requirements to use device protection on your phone:

1. Your device supports the device protection features.
2. You have added and signed in to a Google account on your device.
3. You use a secure screen lock (PIN, pattern, or password).

Signing in to a Google account

Device protection will be activated as soon as you sign in to a Google account on your Xperia device. This means that every reset of the device other than a factory data reset using the Settings menu will require you to verify your identity by entering the username and password of a Google account stored on the device before the reset.

If you haven't already signed in to a Google account while setting up the device in the setup guide, you can create or sign in to a Google account using the Settings menu.

To create or sign in to a Google account

Android 9.0, 10, or 11

1. Find and tap Settings → Accounts.
2. Tap Add account.
3. Select Google from the list.
4. Select if you want to create a new account or sign in to an existing account.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Android 8.x

1. Find and tap Settings → Users & accounts.
2. Tap Add account.
3. Select Google from the list.
4. Select if you want to create a new account or sign in to an existing account.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Android 6.0 or 7.x

1. Find and tap Settings → Accounts & sync.
2. Tap Add account.
3. Select Google from the list.
4. Select if you want to create a new account or sign in to an existing account.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Setting a secure screen lock

A secure screen lock is defined as one of the following screen lock methods:

• PIN
• Password
• Lock pattern

You can also use other screen locks that require setting a PIN, password, or pattern as a backup option to unlock your device:

• Fingerprint unlock (if available on your device)
• Smart Lock (trusted devices or places, face, voice, or on-body detection)

To set a screen lock