The government agency CERT-In has issued a warning for Android smartphone users about various vulnerabilities found in devices running on operating systems Android 12 to 14. These vulnerabilities pose a high risk of unauthorised access to users' smartphones, affecting approximately 70% of Android devices in use in India. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has also announced an extended deadline for its free Aadhaar update scheme until December 2024.
Android Vulnerabilities and Aadhaar Update Extension
Background
In recent weeks, the cybersecurity landscape has been marked by two significant developments: the discovery of critical vulnerabilities in Android smartphones and an extension of the Aadhaar update deadline.
Android Vulnerabilities
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued an urgent warning regarding multiple vulnerabilities affecting Android devices running on versions 12 to 14. These vulnerabilities can allow unauthorized access to users' smartphones, potentially compromising sensitive data and functionality.
Approximately 70% of Android devices in India are affected by this issue, highlighting the widespread nature of the threat. CERT-In has advised users to update their devices to the latest available software version, which includes security patches to address these vulnerabilities.
Aadhaar Update Extension
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has extended the deadline for its free Aadhaar update scheme until December 2024. This scheme allows individuals to update their Aadhaar cards with biometrics and other information to ensure accuracy and prevent misuse.
The extension aims to provide ample time for citizens to take advantage of this free update service and minimize inconvenience. UIDAI has emphasized the importance of maintaining the accuracy and security of Aadhaar data to safeguard its integrity and prevent fraud.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What are the specific vulnerabilities affecting Android smartphones?
The vulnerabilities involve flaws in the Android system that allow malicious apps or actors to gain unauthorized access to devices, bypass security restrictions, and potentially execute arbitrary code.
2. How can I protect my Android smartphone from these vulnerabilities?
Update your device to the latest software version, which includes security patches to address the vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates to stay protected from future threats. Additionally, exercise caution when installing apps and only download from trusted sources.
3. What is the significance of the Aadhaar update extension?
The extension provides citizens with additional time to update their Aadhaar cards and ensure their accuracy. Maintaining updated Aadhaar data is crucial for preventing misuse and safeguarding the integrity of the Aadhaar ecosystem.
4. What is the deadline for the Aadhaar update scheme?
The deadline for the free Aadhaar update scheme has been extended until December 2024.
5. How can I update my Aadhaar card for free?
You can update your Aadhaar card for free by visiting an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or online through the UIDAI website. Bring necessary documents to provide proof of identity and address.
Samsung is not moving slowly when it comes to updates, as One UI 8 based on Android 16 is now being tested on the highly anticipated Galaxy S24 FE. While the firmware isn't publicly available yet, its stable build may be rolled out by the end of the year as Samsung usually skips beta tests for this device. Many are eager to see if the S24 FE will have the same impressive battery life as its predecessor, the S21 FE.
X, formerly known as Twitter, is launching a pilot program that uses AI bots to draft Community Notes for posts flagged by users. These notes provide context and clarification for potentially misleading or incomplete tweets. However, human reviewers will still have the final say on whether the notes are helpful and accurate. This approach aims to scale the use of Community Notes while also addressing potential concerns around AI-generated content. Initial testing is set to begin this month.
In recent weeks, a series of cyberattacks have plagued major airlines in North America, Asia, and Australia, with a common perpetrator - the hacker group 'Scattered Spider'. The group has been known to use social engineering tactics and exploits vulnerabilities in multi-factor authentication systems to gain access to corporate data which they then use for extortion or deploy ransomware. Authorities have issued a warning and are actively working with the aviation industry to address the threat.
Tecno is all set to launch its highly anticipated Pova 7 5G series in India today at 12 pm IST. The lineup is expected to include four models with exciting features like a dynamic new Delta light interface, MemFusion technology, and the in-house Ella AI assistant. The top-end model may even support 120fps BGMI gameplay. Stay tuned for more updates on the launch event.
Amazon's Black Friday 2022 has brought some amazing deals on smart wearables, and we've rounded up the best ones from Apple, Google, and Samsung. From the rugged Apple Watch Ultra to the sleek Google Pixel Watch, there's something for everyone. The latest and greatest Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro with advanced health tracking features is also on offer, while the budget-friendly Watch4 is a great option for those looking to upgrade. Don't miss out on these deals!
Qantas, a leading airline, has confirmed a major cyber attack on its contact centre which has affected around six million customers. The attack targeted a third-party customer-servicing platform, with the airline detecting unusual activity on a third-party site used by their contact centre. The news comes after the FBI warned about similar cyber attacks on airlines, but Qantas has assured that there is no impact on their operations or safety. The airline is now contacting customers to apologize and provide support regarding the incident.
Reports of an outage on X (formerly Twitter) have spiked, with users and monitoring services like Downdetector noting issues with the app, website, and servers. The outage has lasted about 46 minutes and updates are being provided live. After peaking at 13,605 reports, the number has dropped to 267 and the issue seems to have been resolved. The cause of the outage is still unknown and there has been no official statement from X or its Safety accounts.
Ola Electric has debuted its latest Gen 3 platform, which will be utilized in the upcoming iteration of its popular S1 electric scooters. The platform boasts a cutting-edge battery pack, motor, and an integrated control module, all designed to improve performance, strength, and energy efficiency. With a focus on Indian-made technology, Ola's battery cells and motor design are set to shake up the electric vehicle market, while also reducing the country's reliance on imported lithium.
iQOO is set to launch a new version of its popular smartphone, the iQOO Z9 Turbo, in China in January. The new edition boasts a larger battery, improved dual-frequency GPS, and support for up to 16GB of RAM. Along with its similar design to the current model, the iQOO Z9 Turbo Long Battery Life Version is set to become a hit in the Chinese market. Stay updated with the latest tech news and reviews on Gadgets 360 for more information on the new iQOO Z9 Turbo model.
In the world of smartphones, AI has become a key selling point for top manufacturers. But which company's AI technology reigns supreme when it comes to removing distractions from photos? Our in-house testing reveals the top performers in the industry - Samsung's Galaxy AI, Apple's Intelligence, Google's Gemini AI, and Xiaomi's AI Erase 2.0. With a selection of 20 images from a variety of devices, we put these top-of-the-line smartphones to the test to see which one can erase the competition.