Srinagar, Oct 8: Tech giant Google has issued a fresh security alert to Android users worldwide, urging them to disable 2G connectivity on their devices to protect against a new wave of sophisticated SMS-based cyberattacks. The warning comes amid a surge in scams involving “SMS blasters”, devices capable of mimicking cell towers and sending fraudulent messages directly to smartphones.
Cybersecurity researchers have revealed that these attacks exploit vulnerabilities in 2G networks, which lack the modern encryption and authentication safeguards of newer technologies such as 4G and 5G. Once a phone is tricked into connecting to a rogue 2G tower, attackers can bypass mobile operators’ security filters and inject malicious text messages that appear to come from trusted sources like banks, government departments, or service providers.
According to Google, Android users running version 12 or above can manually disable 2G under “Network and Internet” settings. Newer Android versions, including Android 16, now come with “Advanced Protection Mode,” which disables 2G by default except for emergency services.
Security analysts have described this as a critical preventive measure. “Disabling 2G essentially cuts off one of the oldest and weakest communication layers that cybercriminals are exploiting. It’s a necessary move for modern smartphone security,” said a cybersecurity expert quoted in international media.
Samsung and other Android manufacturers have also integrated a “2G toggle” feature within their mobile network settings, allowing users to block 2G access. However, iPhone users have limited protection options, with Apple recommending its “Lockdown Mode” as an additional safeguard against high-risk communications.
Cyber experts have advised the public to stay vigilant, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and report any unusual or threatening text messages to cybercrime helplines. The advisory is especially relevant in India, where millions of Android users remain active on networks that still support 2G connectivity. [KNT]
