Google is now launching the first of the monthly security updates for owners of Nexus devices after the reveal of the frightening Stagefright vulnerability for all Android devices.
For those who seemed to forget the Stagefright fiasco, the vulnerability could allow an attacker to remotely take over an unsuspecting Android user with just an MMS message. However, the newer version of Androids today have stopped the said vulnerability, or did they?
Android device makers and sellers became concerned about the security of the said devices. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), carriers and even Google themselves have started to develop security updates to further mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
Tech giants Samsung and LG have already sent several patches out for their flagship devices. Now, it's Google's turn, according to Ars Technica.
Nexus 4, 5, 6, 7, 9 and 10 devices can now download the Android 5.1.1 "LMY48M" build update as the first of the promised monthly security updates. For the Android TV-based Nexus Player, there is also the new "LMY48N" build. For those who want to fully protect their devices from further hacks or vulnerabilities, it's highly recommended to install the updates.
T-Mobile has also posted the Android security update for the LG Google Nexus 4, LG Google Nexus 5, Motorla Google Nexus 6, Asus Google Nexus 7 2013 model and the HTC Google Nexus 9. NDTV reported that these updates were sent out via OTA (over-the-air) and Wi-Fi only. T-Mobile said that the new mandatory security updates will be made available for cellular network download soon.
For the T-Mobile users, the Nexus 4, Nexus 5 and Nexus 9 will have the "LMY48M" build. The Nexus 6 will have the "LYZ28K" and the Nexus 7 with "LMY48P". All updates are still based on Android 5.1.1.
What will the updates address? After the Stagefright fixes, the updates are mostly focused on the memory overflow issues. These said issues can lead to exploitation by attackers and other skilled hackers, according to Tech Spot. One of the most notable fixes is one for the SMS vulnerability that is linked to the earlier Stagefright flaw.
Android devices account for the majority of all smartphones and tablets across the globe. Hopefully, these updates for Android devices will be updated regularly to keep Androud users feeling secured with their mobile devices.
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