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Google warns to turn off 2G on Android phones to protect against phishing

PUBLISHED: LAST UPDATE:

Google warns billions of Android users about SMS Blasters that mimic 4G/5G but switch devices to insecure 2G, risking data theft. India’s feature phone users are particularly at risk.

Google warns to turn off 2G on Android phones to protect against phishing

As technology advances, many people are moving to newer networks like 5G, and the Indian government has even filed patents for 6G technology. 

However, a lot of people are still using the outdated 2G network, which is becoming a concern.

Google has issued a warning to billions of Android users worldwide about a security threat involving SMS Blasters.

 
These threats can mimic 4G or 5G networks, and when you connect, they switch your phone's network to 2G. 

This allows attackers to exploit the weaker security of 2G networks to access your device and steal your data.

In India, many people still use feature phones, and Google is concerned about the risk of these phones connecting to fake 4G or 5G networks without the user's knowledge. This could allow attackers to exploit the network.

Google has recognised the risks associated with 2G networks and has introduced an option to disable 2G on Android 12 and later for Pixel devices.

To turn off 2G on your phone:

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Select "Network & Internet."
  3. Tap on "SIMs."
  4. Find the option for "Allow 2G" and toggle it off.

By doing this, you can better protect yourself from phishing and scams.

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