Millions of Android phones could be at risk as CERT-In flags critical vulnerabilities, here is how to stay safe
Follow UsAndroid users could be at risk from security flaws.
Several Android versions may be affected.
Update your phone to stay safe from threats.
Are you using an Android phone? If yes, then your data might be at risk. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has recently flagged several high-risk security vulnerabilities that affect multiple versions of the operating system. According to the agency, the flaws have been found across important parts of Android, including Android Runtime, DocumentsUI, MediaTek Framework, Media Codecs, MediaProvider, Telephony, UWB and Wi-Fi. If not taken seriously, then some of these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to run harmful code, gain higher system access, steal sensitive information or disrupt device operations. Here’s everything you need to know about the vulnerabilities and how to stay safe.
SurveyWhat can hackers do?
The vulnerabilities could give attackers ways to carry out harmful actions on affected devices. Depending on the specific flaw, an attacker may be able to run code without proper permission, gain greater access to the system, obtain sensitive information or cause the phone to stop working properly.
This is particularly concerning because smartphones now hold personal photos, messages, contacts, documents, banking information and account details.
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List of affected Android devices
According to the official CERT-In website, the reported flaws are spread across different system components. These parts of Android help manage apps, media files, phone functions, wireless connections and other key operations. Here are the Android devices that could be affected:
- Android 14
- Android 15
- Android 16
- Android 16 QPR2
- Android 17
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How to keep your Android device safe
Even if you feel that your device is completely safe, the attackers may already be working to get access to your device, or the worst may already have it. If you want to ensure that your device is completely safe, then you should make sure that you install the latest software and security updates as soon as they arrive. The companies regularly push these updates to protect your device from such malicious actors.
To update your device to the latest software, you can simply go to Settings > Security & privacy > System updates. The steps can differ a bit depending on your smartphone manufacturer. Other than that, you can also enable auto update so that an update automatically gets installed when available.
Other than that, you should also avoid downloading apps from unknown sources. Keep cautious when dealing with unfamiliar links, files and attachments, especially when you receive them through unknown senders on messages, emails or social media.
