Google is working on a way how to patch the loopholes that were discovered in fighting against the Stagefright bug virus. Android developers said that they are going to release a code on August 24th which will be a part of their security update. Work arounds are being done to delay the virus attack on Android phones while waiting for the full-blown security update.
One of the loopholes is that hackers can gain access on Android phone even if the mms or text was not opened, according to WSB-TV.
Another loophole is the fingerprint sensor spying attack which allows hackers to silently obtain someone's fingerprint from the affected Android handset, according to HPlus Magazine. Through fingerprints, hackers can easily access bank account information, and steal identity for immigration and criminal records.
These loopholes compromise the security of Android handsets without users knowing that they are already hacked.
As part of fighting the virus, Drake said in the previous news that they are going to release a code by August 24th to patch the loopholes. In addition, security developers stated that Stagefright security will be updated faster than usual once the supplemental code becomes available.
Smartphone manufacturers are also working to contain the virus in as much as possible. Google, Samsung, Motorola and LG rolled out OTA for security updates every month for their Android users, according to NDTV.
Moreover, related reports are encouraging Android users to keep phone's software updated and install applications in Google Play store only in addition to the regular OTA security update that the phone is receiving.
On the other hand, eWeek stated that Google has Android Security Rewards program which encourages researchers to find and report susceptibilities of Android mobile operating system. This is a part a new bug bounty program that gives monetary rewards to strengthen Android platform and fight against hackers.
Various actions are being done to fight against Stagefright virus with a hope that it will be fully contained once the code becomes available.
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