If you have an Android phone tucked in your pocket you’d be wise to watch out for an important update coming from Google. The US technology giant has just confirmed that it has fixed over 40 issues with its Android operating system including one bug that has been handed the dreaded “zero-day” rating.
That means hackers have become aware of the glitch and are already exploiting it in the wild. Google says that successful exploitation of this now-fixed flaw might lead to physical escalation of privilege.
As reported by the security team at CIS, this bug could allow an attacker to install programs; view, change, or delete data; or create new accounts with full rights.
Along with that ‘zero-day” threat, Google’s new update has also mended a “critical” flaw found within Qualcomm’s WLAN component. It’s been confirmed that this could lead to memory corruption on devices.
Now, here is where things get a little complicated.
If you own a phone made by Google – such as the latest Pixel devices – you should see this release almost immediately. However, those with call makers made by the likes of Samsung or OnePlus may have to wait. This is because each manufacturer has their own customised versions of Android which need to be patched before being released.
As Google explains, “Android partners are encouraged to fix all issues in this bulletin and use the latest security patch level.”
Keep an eye on your updates and make sure you are always running the very latest version of Android.
How to get the latest Android updates available for your device
When you get a notification to update your Android device, open it and tap the update action.
If you cleared your notification or your device has been offline:
• Open your device’s Settings app.
• Tap System and then Software update.
• You can find the update status.
• Follow any steps on the screen.
