The vulnerability can allow hackers to “gain elevated privileges and obtain sensitive information on the targeted system”
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), which is a cybersecurity agency, warns Android users of facing cybersecurity issues. CERT-In explained that they have spotted high risk threats in Android versions prior 12, v12L, v13, and v14.
The research team has already issued warnings of ‘high severity risk’ for people who are still using the above mentioned Android versions.
CERT-In issues security alert
CERT-In explained that, if exploited, the vulnerability can allow hackers to “gain elevated privileges and obtain sensitive information on the targeted system”. This means that the affected users’ devices could be controlled by a hacker. They can then eventually access and steal sensitive information from a victim’s device.
The cybersecurity agency further added that these vulnerabilities can exist in Android due to “flaws in the System, Google Play system updates, Framework, Kernel MediaTek components, Qualcomm components, Arm components, Imagination Technologies, and Qualcomm close-source components”. This means that if your device runs on Android versions prior to Android 12l, Android 12, Android 14, and Android 13, then you can face issues in the above-mentioned components.
However, this is not the first time that CERT-In has issued warnings against security issues for smartphone users. Last year “Multiple vulnerabilities have been reported in Samsung products that could allow an attacker to bypass implemented security restrictions, access sensitive information, and execute arbitrary code on the targeted system,” CERT-In had said in a note.
Safety road ahead
So, how can you protect your device? The CERT-In has come up with some guidelines that could protect you from this exploit. Given below are the steps through which you can protect yourself:
- In case you suspect that your device has been compromised, always initiate a factory reset
- Next you should regularly back up your data to an external source or cloud service.
- Try to keep an eye on your device’s activity for any unusual behaviour. This could include sudden slowdowns, automated installation of unknown apps or unexpected pop-ups redirecting you links automatically
- You should try to avoid clicking on unknown links
- Always be cautious of unknown emails, messages or links, especially those that ask for personal information or credentials
- Use trusted sources: Only download apps from trusted sources like the Google Play Store.
- Try to consider installing reputable security software on your device.
- You need to regularly review the permissions that you have granted to your apps
- Lastly always go for automatic updates for both your apps and operating system
Read More:- https://www.financialexpress.com/life/technology-government-alert-for-these-android-users-your-phone-may-be-prone-to-hacking-3577733/
Source Credit: https://www.financialexpress.com/