Android 12 Security Updates End: If you're using an Android smartphone from 2021 or earlier, your troubles may now increase! A major decision by Google has raised concerns for millions of mobile users worldwide. The company has clarified that smartphones running Android 12 and older will no longer receive any security updates.

Android 12 Security Updates End: Do you own a smartphone from 2021 or earlier? If the answer is yes, then be careful. In fact, the problems of over 1 billion smartphone users worldwide are about to increase. Tech giant Google has clarified that smartphones running Android 12 or older will no longer receive security updates. This simply means that over 1 billion phones worldwide are now vulnerable to hackers.

Why has the threat increased?
According to data and media reports, approximately 42.1% of Android users are still using outdated software. Google has stopped releasing security patches for these devices. Simply put, these phones are now open to viruses and malware because they no longer receive locking updates.

Which phones are unsafe now?

If your phone was launched in 2021 or before, then you are most at risk.

Unsafe versions Android 12, 11, 10, 9 and older.

These versions are safe right now – Android 13, 14, 15 and the latest Android 16 are the only ones that are safe right now.

Why is Android lagging behind Apple?
The report attributes Android fragmentation to this issue. While Apple provides long-term updates to even its older iPhones, companies like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Motorola stop providing updates to older models after a few years.

How to check if your phone is safe or not

For this, first go to the Settings of your phone.

Go to about phone here

Check your Android version

If your phone is running Android 12 or older and isn't receiving updates, it's no longer protected by Google

Google's advice
According to a Forbes report, Google has clearly stated that if your phone is stuck on Android 12 and is not updating, it is wise to buy a new phone. It is not necessary to buy an expensive phone; you can buy any mid-range phone with Android 13 or above.
For your information, older phones are most at risk of banking fraud, password theft, and message interception. Google Play Protect provides minor security, but it cannot fix major system-level flaws. Therefore, if you are currently using a phone with Android 12 or lower, be careful.