Google is introducing a new security feature in Android 16 that will warn users if their smartphone is using a fake or unsecured mobile network or if such a network is trying to obtain their identification data.
Google is introducing a new security feature in Android 16 that will warn users if their smartphone is using a fake or unsecured mobile network or if such a network is trying to obtain their identification data.
As Engadet reports with reference to Android Authority, this feature will likely only appear on next-gen smartphones. Currently, Android phones do not have the necessary hardware to support these technologies; the first compatible gadget is expected to be the Pixel 10, which is due out later this summer.
The new feature is designed to combat base station simulators, or devices that act as base stations and force nearby devices to connect to them. Once connected, these simulators can collect sensitive information, such as the location of a smartphone. These base station simulators are better known by the commercial name Stingray.
The new security features are being rolled out as part of the latest Android OS update, which was released earlier this month. Compatible devices will have the option to enable or disable «network notifications,» which will alert you when your phone is connecting to an unencrypted network or when a connected network requests a unique ID. There’s also an option to enable «2G network protection» to avoid a less secure type of mobile network.
Recall that on June 10, Google released the final version of Android 16. It has better battery performance, protection against threats, and new tools for interacting with applications.
