No security on MTP/USB mode?

[LNWJ]

On my Nexus S, in order to mount the USB storage on the phone, you had to unlock the screen to gain access to the partition. I noticed on the N4 since it uses MTP regardless if the screen is locked or not, a PC or Mac will mount the storage and allow read/write.

Is there a way to secure this or prevent this unless the phone is unlocked/password protected? Thank you!

 

[teleclimber]

wowza. That's scary! Thanks for bringing this up. I hope this gets Google's attention.

 

[dbareis]

On my Galaxy Nexus on Android 4.2, it does require unlocking to access it just like previously... Wish I had a Nexus 4 to try it on :-(

 

[LNWJ]

I tried disabling the MTP mode check box under Storage in the Settings app, but it is only a toggle (Camera mode or MTP mode).

So it does indeed look like an issue with the N4?

EDIT: I filed a report with Google's security team. Maybe its by design, maybe not... but sent it along anyway.