For faster and more dependable networks, nations all over the world have begun to switch to 5G networks. Although 2G is now outdated, it gained attention soon after Google sent out a serious security alert to owners of Samsung Galaxy smartphones.
A new security-related article was just added to the Google Security Blog. With Android 12, Pixel phones received the ability to flip off 2G altogether. The majority of countries’ Samsung Galaxy handsets do not have this 2G setting, which may raise security issues for customers.
Radio devices called cell-site simulators, sometimes referred to as FBS or Stingrays, imitate actual cell sites in order to entice mobile devices to connect to them. These devices are frequently used for security breaches, including communication interception and monitoring.
“Working with global carriers and other OEMs through the GSMA to support the ecosystem in the development and adoption of further cellular security and privacy features is a priority area for Android.” – Google said in blog post.
Global carriers refer to FBS and cell-site simulators that are illegally used to distribute (blast) SMS payloads as “SMS Blasters.” They make available a phony LTE or 5G network that downgrades the user’s connection to an antiquated 2G standard. The impact of this kind of fraud can be greatly reduced, or in some cases completely blocked, by a number of security mechanisms exclusive to Android. A new feature in Android 12 allows users to turn off 2G at the modem level.
In certain countries, Samsung introduced a toggle to turn off the 2G network on Galaxy handsets. But most countries’ Galaxy smartphones still lack this choice in the Settings app. According to Google, it is collaborating with partners to implement security features.
Do you like this post? Kindly, let us know on X/Twitter: we love hearing your feedback! If you prefer using other social platforms besides X, follow/join us on Facebook Telegram, Instagram, and YouTube.