Android OS Security Risk : Mobile Phone News
The many millions of people using an Android mobile phone should be aware of a new security risk that has been identified.
The issue occurs when an Android phone connects to the Internet. The Google Apps automatically connect with the Google servers and syncs usernames and passwords. The Android phone then holds what is called a 'token' for 14 days, which helps the user access the internet more quickly the next time the internet is used by not needing to communicate with the Google server every time.
The security risk is that this information can be accessed if the phone is used over an unsecured Wi-Fi network, giving an unscrupulous hacker access to usernames and passwords. From here of course the hacker than then see personal information, pretend to be the person whose account they have accessed and even access bank accounts and other online accounts if passwords are held in the email or contacts.
This particular security issue is applicable to Android phones running operating system 2.3.3 or older. Should an Android phone user wish to check their operating system go to settings, then click on About Phone. The version number will be found under Android Version or firmware. Google have corrected this issue from Android version 2.3.4, though not that many phones are able to get updates yet. Users should also be aware that using the mobile internet connection, or using a password-protected Wi-Fi network, will also protect the phone from being hacked.
