Earlier operating software - codenamed Froyo, Gingerbread, Ice Cream Sandwich, Jelly Bean and KitKat - is at risk
Older versions of Android devices can have their passcode reset remotely by Google if a court order forces them to, allowing the authorities to look at the contents.
That's according to a document prepared by the New York District Attorney, which points out that phones and tablets running Android software released prior to Lollipop 5.0 are vulnerable to resetting.
Newer software uses full disk encryption, meaning Google cannot comply with requests even if it was forced to.
But earlier software - codenamed Froyo, Gingerbread, Ice Cream Sandwich, Jelly Bean and KitKat - is at risk.
This means that around 75% of all Android devices are still using a software version that can be remotely accessed with a court order.
The document said: "For some other types of Android devices, Google can reset the passcodes when served with a search warrant and an order instructing them to assist law enforcement to extract data from the device.
"This process can be done by Google remotely and allows forensic examiners to view the contents of a device."
Despite having the ability, most new Android phones have encryption turned off by default.
The process to turn it on varies by model, but can usually be found somewhere in the settings menu.
Meanwhile the search giant has revealed that it receives 1,500 requests every minute for the removal of specific results from its search engine for copyright reasons.
Google offers an automated system, letting complainants file through an online form under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act.
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