Google warns Android users to update phone 'now' after 'high security' alert

James Rodger
·2-min read
Google warns Android users to update phone 'now' after 'high security' alert
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


An urgent warning has been issued Android owners to update their phone NOW as Google reveals 17 "high security" alerts. Google, which owns Android, has issued an essential update for the operating system and says there are 51 various security flaws in Android devices.

"These capabilities reduce the likelihood that security vulnerabilities could be successfully exploited on Android," Google says. Android tech experts warned: "This is a summary of the mitigations provided by the Android security platform and service protections such as Google Play Protect. These capabilities reduce the likelihood that security vulnerabilities could be successfully exploited on Android.

"Exploitation for many issues on Android is made more difficult by enhancements in newer versions of the Android platform. We encourage all users to update to the latest version of Android where possible.

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"The Android security team actively monitors for abuse through Google Play Protect and warns users about Potentially Harmful Applications. Google Play Protect is enabled by default on devices with Google Mobile Services, and is especially important for users who install apps from outside of Google Play."

You can find your Pixel phone’s Android version number and security update level in your Settings app. You'll get notifications when updates are available for you. You can do this by going to the Settings > Security and privacy > System and updates.

You should also ensure you have Google Play Protect switched on, as this will deal with dubious apps that come up. Visit the Google Play Store app, tap on your profile icon and select Play Protect, tech experts have warned.

Open your device's Settings app. Near the bottom, tap About phone or About tablet and then Android version. Find your "Android version," "Android security update," and "Build number." Most system updates and security patches happen automatically, Google has said.

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