Attention, Android users! Government issues warning against serious security threats, check complete details here

Android users, pay attention! The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) has issued a high-risk alert for Android users, specifically focusing on those who are using the Android 15 version. The CERT warns users of severe security vulnerabilities that threaten to impact Android devices.

The advisory points out a series of problems in the Android operating system, which, if exploited would grant access to an attacker to exploit sensitive information, they can gain more privileges, execute arbitrary code, or cause denial of service (DoS) conditions on the targeted system.

Android users update their devices immediately¡ªwarns the government

According to the fresh warning issued by the government, Android users must update their devices immediately to protect themselves from any sort of danger. In the whole matter, Android versions 12 and 15 are involved, and that¡¯s why the issue concerns millions of users.

Which Android devices are at risk?

The CERT-In¡¯s Vulnerability Note CIVN-2024-0349 notes that such dangers arise from faults in the Framework, System, and Google Play system updates of Android, with other hardware components from MediaTek and Qualcomm.

If there is an attack, it could lead to unauthorised access to the device data that may leak sensitive information or grant complete remote access to the device.

The impacted Android versions include:

• Android 12
• Android 12L
• Android 13
• Android 14
• Android 15

The potential risk factors may lead to severe loss of data or privacy that will affect the common users or organisations that are using Android devices.

What is CERT?

CERT, or Cybersecurity Emergency Response Teams, also known as the Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRT), are the first responders in the event of a cyberattack. CERT-In is a cybersecurity agency that operates under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

The main goal of a CERT is to contain computer security incidents and reduce their impact on the operations of the organisation and its reputation. They also focus on facilitating post-crisis remediation and reconstruction.

Few tips for the users

• Update your Android device with the latest version.
• Always check for installing updates for Android devices from the OEM.
• Ensure you are using safe apps and avoid downloading apps from wary sources.
• Ensure security features like Google Play Protect.