Update Android Phones: Personal and Work Devices – Technologist

In the current threat landscape, mobile devices have become prime targets for cyber criminals, with a particular focus on Android vulnerabilities. Given Google’s recent security update addressing two critical Android zero-day vulnerabilities, businesses are advised to ensure that both personal and work-related Android devices used by employees are regularly backed up and updated. Implementing these practices plays a vital role in safeguarding sensitive company data and reducing exposure to potential security threats. Here’s why you should update your Android phone: just read the article below.

Overview of Google’s Latest Android Security Patch

As part of its November 2024 update, Google has released fixes for 51 vulnerabilities, including two zero-day flaws (CVE-2024-43047 and CVE-2024-43093) that have been actively exploited in targeted attacks. Zero-day vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they are exploited before the wider public is aware of them, leaving devices vulnerable until a patch is issued.

The first vulnerability, CVE-2024-43047, is a high-severity issue involving Qualcomm components within the Android kernel. This vulnerability allows attackers to elevate privileges, potentially providing access to protected areas of the system. Qualcomm originally reported the flaw in October 2024, and it may have been used in targeted spyware attacks.

The second flaw, CVE-2024-43093, affects the Android Framework component and Google Play system updates, specifically impacting the Documents UI. Similar to the first, this vulnerability allows privilege escalation and is considered high-severity. Although Google has not disclosed the full details of these exploits, researchers at Amnesty International’s discovery of CVE-2024-43047 suggests it may have been leveraged in targeted spyware activities. Additionally, a critical flaw (CVE-2024-38408) affecting Qualcomm’s proprietary components was also addressed in this update.

The Importance of Regular Device Backups

With devices increasingly vulnerable to such security issues, regularly backing up data is essential. Backups protect valuable information—such as contacts, messages, photos, and business documents—and enable swift recovery in the event of device compromise. Regular backups are an effective safeguard even if a device falls victim to a zero-day attack.

Encourage employees to make use of Android’s automatic backup settings, which can typically be accessed under Settings > System > Backup. Regular data backups to secure cloud storage or external devices significantly reduce the impact of data loss due to a breach or malware infection, enhancing the company’s resilience to cyber incidents.

The Need for Routine Android Updates

Given the recent discovery of these zero-day vulnerabilities, Google’s November update is crucial for Android users. Google issues two monthly patch levels, the first addressing core Android vulnerabilities, and the second covering additional fixes from vendors like Qualcomm and MediaTek. For November 2024, the patch fixed 51 issues across Android versions 12 through 15, protecting users against a range of vulnerabilities.

Employees should be encouraged to regularly check for updates by navigating to Settings > System > Software updates > System update or Settings > Security & privacy > System & updates > Security update. A restart is required for updates to take effect, but this straightforward step is highly effective for safeguarding devices against known vulnerabilities.

For employees using Android 11 or older versions, security support is limited, particularly for critical issues like those addressed in the latest patches. When possible, employees should upgrade to newer devices with continued security support or use a third-party Android distribution that incorporates the latest security fixes.

Steps for Businesses to Improve Device Security

The following steps can help organisations reinforce device security:

1. Regular Backup Reminders: Encourage employees to establish regular backup routines, using secure cloud options or external storage. This precaution ensures critical data remains accessible even in the event of device loss or compromise.
2. Promote Security Updates: Advise employees to routinely check for and apply updates to their devices. Android devices can be set to automatically download updates, making this an easy and reliable layer of protection.
3. Upgrade Outdated Devices: For Android devices no longer receiving security updates, consider replacing them with newer models. Older devices are more vulnerable to unaddressed risks.
4. Implement Secure Device Usage Training: Equip employees with knowledge of safe practices via user awareness training, including avoiding unknown links, managing app permissions carefully, and using phish-resistant multi-factor authentication methods, such as Yubikey.

Update Android Phones

The recent Android vulnerabilities highlight the importance of robust mobile device cyber security practices within organisations. Encouraging employees to back up their devices, apply updates promptly, and follow secure usage guidelines helps reduce risks and strengthens an organisation’s defence against mobile threats. In a climate where cyber security must be a priority, proactive device management is a key measure in maintaining data security and business continuity.

It is important for everybody to update their Android phones, whether it is a work or personal device, to ensure that the devices patch zero-day vulnerabilities.