Although Android 16 has made fewer flashy changes compared to Android 15, it has introduced other significant capacities, such as more improved safety features. Now Google adds a new mobile network safety tool to smartphones which aims to combat attackers’ spying using towers or usur cell cells.
Android already supports a handful of security features, ranging from data protection to anti -theft guarantees. As discovered in the last Android 16 update, there is now a new addition to this series of measures which gives users a tool to protect themselves from espionage.
In particular, these types of attacks fall into the category called “sting rays”, which essentially involve configuring false cell networks. Once they have cheated on your device in connection, attackers can use it as a duct to easily steal your information, such as unique information from the device and SIM, as well as to intercept your messages and calls. They can even force your device to use less secure 2G networks and make other sophisticated attacks.
The new Android 16 tool against espionage and false cell tricks
According to the details shared by Android authorityAndroid 16 has introduced a updated safety and confidentiality and confidentiality parameters, which now incorporates “mobile networks”. Inside, there is a new switch called “Network notifications”.
Verbiage under the rocking describes that it will alert a user when their “device connects to an unspeared network” or when their device or SIM ID has been recorded by a network. This clearly represents protection against “rays” or false networks and aims to prevent additional espionage.
After a more in -depth investigation, it is also shown how the tool works once in action. Mainly, it alerts the user that its current connection is not encrypted. Then there are shortcuts to the parameters and details of the notification. Once on a secure network, a new alert is sent confirming a secure connection.
The new Android 16 mobile network notifications could only support new models such as Pixel 10. / © Google
In the same section, there is also a rocking for “2G network protection”, which, as its name suggests, deactivates the connection to this type of cellular network.
Compatibility of the anti-espionary features of Android 16
However, it appears that the new protection tools for the mobile network and 2G network are only available for Pixel and Android smartphones which support one or the other functionality and have the necessary connectivity component. That said, there is currently no pixel model that fully integrates functionality from initial public deployment. Or it is possible that Google and other OEMs like Samsung have not yet completely deployed and activated functionality on all compatible devices.
Based on the understanding of technology behind the anti-espirant tool in Android 16, it is likely that Google specifically prepares it for the next Pixel 10. However, future non-pixel and non-pixel devices could also benefit from it.
Do you think your device and you are now safer with these new Android safety features? We would like to know your reflections in the comments.
