Google Device Lock Controller

2020: Application launch, allowing collectors and banks to block Android phone for debts

In the middle of November, 2020 it became known that Google released the Device Lock Controller application which helps credit institutions to block Android phone for debts. The program is placed in Google Play shop.

The controller of blocking allows credit institution to manage access to the device. The provider can limit far off access to the client's device if that did not enter a payment to in advance stipulated time. At the same time even in handover time remain basic functions, such as call of service of the emergency help and standard settings and also opportunity to accept incoming calls and to carry out a number of outgoing calls are available. Besides, the user can execute backup and data recovery at any time.

Application launch of Google Device Lock Controller, allowing collectors and banks to block Android phone for debts

First of all this application is intended for telecom operators with own shops which offer clients of installment purchasing. On On the website of Google it is specified that the supplier can "load and install the application" and "turn off functions of debugging and management of users" which can presumably be used for a bypass of these measures.

The Kenyan operator Safaricom uses this service since July, 2020. Thanks to a funding plan of "Lipa Mdogo Mdogo" the Kenyans who do not have access to the credits can buy the new Android smartphone on the installment plan. In case of the admission of the planned payments phone is blocked in three stages: for the fourth day after the expiration of Safaricom blocks the smartphone, leaving default settings, for the 7th day outgoing calls and the SMS become unavailable to the user, and in 30 days of the client enter in the black list and disqualify before payment introduction.

So far it is not clear who else uses the Google application of Device Lock Controller, but into Google Play by November 12, 2020 it was loaded by no more than 100 times.^[1][2]

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