Google has released this month's Android security updates, which contain fixes for 46 different vulnerabilities, including one that is actively being exploited. zero-day vulnerability.
As reported by Computer beepthe zero-day in question (tracked as CVE-2024-36971) is a use after release vulnerability in the Linux kernel used by Android to control network route management.
Although exploiting this security flaw requires system execution privileges, Google explained in a Android Security Bulletin There are indications that this zero-day flaw “may be subject to limited and targeted exploitation.” Successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on unpatched devices without user interaction.
This zero-day flaw was discovered by Clément Lecigne, a security researcher in the Threat Analysis Group of the search giant Google (LABEL). As is often the case, however, the company has not provided details on how this flaw is being exploited to give owners of best android phones It's time to fix their devices.
Yet Google's TAG security researchers are often tasked with finding and disclosing zero-day flaws that state-sponsored hackers use in attacks targeting high-profile figures such as CEOs, politicians, and activists.
How to update your Android smartphone
To address this zero-day and 45 other security vulnerabilities, Google released two sets of patches as part of its August security updates in the form of 2024-08-01 and 2024-08-05. The second set of patches includes all the fixes from the first set and additional fixes for closed-source third-party components and kernel components.
While Google Pixel Phones Get the latest security updates as soon as they are released, best samsung phones and devices from other popular hardware manufacturers might take longer before they start rolling out to users.
To see if an update is available for your Android phone, you can go to Settings and search System, Software update Or About the phone, depending on your phone manufacturer. From there, tap System Update Or Software update then press Check for updates. If an update is available, you can download and install it on your phone. However, you should make sure that your device is charged and connected to Wi-Fi before installing updates. If you need further help, check out our guide on how to update android.
While the zero-day flaw described above may be actively exploited by hackers, it’s only used in targeted attacks, meaning most Android users are likely safe from the threat. Still, it’s a good reminder to make sure your smartphone is running the latest software.