The Indian government has issued an urgent security alert for millions of Android users, warning of serious vulnerabilities affecting Android versions 13, 14, and 15. CERT-In, the national cybersecurity agency, says these flaws could let hackers steal sensitive data, hijack devices, or disrupt services.
Google has released security patches, and experts urge users to update their phones immediately by following simple steps to stay protected.
Millions at Risk: CERT-In’s Alert and Expert Advice for Android Users
CERT-In’s advisory, released on May 12, 2025, warns that vulnerabilities exist across key Android components, including the Framework, Media Framework, System UI, Permission Controller, Wi-Fi, and hardware from major chipmakers.
“Successful exploitation of these vulnerabilities could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code, obtain sensitive information, gain elevated privileges and cause a Denial of Service (DoS) condition on the targeted system,” the agency stated.
Cybersecurity expert Rohan Verma advises, “Users should not delay installing the latest security updates and must avoid downloading apps from unknown sources, as these are common entry points for attackers.”
How to Secure Your Android Device: Simple Steps for Users
To protect against these vulnerabilities, Google and security professionals recommend all users install the latest security updates. Here’s how you can secure your Android phone:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Scroll down and tap on System update.
- Check for a new update.
- If available, download and install the update.
- Restart your phone to complete the process.
Additionally, experts suggest enabling automatic updates and regularly reviewing app permissions to further strengthen device security. Google has also announced Android 16, promising further improvements and a new Material Expressive UI for Pixel devices later this year.
Background: Why Android Devices Remain Vulnerable
Android’s widespread use and open-source nature mean that updates often depend on individual phone makers, leading to delays in patching security flaws. Previous incidents have shown that such vulnerabilities can be exploited quickly, making timely updates crucial.
“The fragmented ecosystem makes it essential for users to be proactive about security,” Verma adds. Google addressed these issues in its May 2025 security bulletin, but the rollout speed varies by brand and model, leaving some users exposed for longer periods.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This latest security scare highlights the urgent need for stronger collaboration between tech companies, device manufacturers, and government agencies to protect users in an increasingly digital world. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, it is vital for all stakeholders to prioritise user safety and transparency.
The Logical Indian urges our readers to update their devices and stay vigilant, while calling on the industry to ensure faster, more reliable protection for everyone. How can we, as a community, encourage responsible digital habits and demand better security from the brands we trust?
