News

Qualcomm Security Flaw Letting Others Read Your Messages

When it comes to privacy we all like the idea that we can keep some secrets to ourselves. If you write it down in your diary you often have to worry about others reading it, so some decide to share their secrets via their mobile phone with friends. Sadly it would appear that a security bug in Qualcomm’s mobile chipset has allowed people to read your messages and more since 2011!

The security firm FireEye has revealed that a flaw found in Android 4.3 and earlier versions allow apps with low privileges to access your sensitive data in ways you never gave them permission to do. The security flaw (CVE-2016-2060) was introduced when chipmaker Qualcomm created and released the interfaces known as “network_manager” and the “netd”  daemon.

The security flaw means that an app that doesn’t ask for any permissions could access everything from your text messages and call history or even disable the lock screen or change your system settings. FireEye state that while “newer devices utilizing SEAndroid are still affected, but to a lesser extent.”

While the problem was fixed in a security patch on May 1st this year, some people may never be able to get the latest patch thanks to restrictions by phone manufacturers or mobile carriers. With such a large flaw potentially going unfixed in so many devices (it’s estimated that 34 percent of users are running version 4.3 or earlier), Qualcomm could be exposing thousands of users data to malicious apps with little hope for those affected to update and protect themselves.

Gareth Andrews

Disqus Comments Loading...

Recent Posts

Trust Gaming GXT 609 Zoxa 2.0 PC Speakers

SOUNDS GREAT – Full stereo sound (12W peak power) gives your setup a booming audio…

4 hours ago

PowerA Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch

Special Edition Yoshi design Ergonomic controller shape with Nintendo Switch button layout Detachable 10ft (3m)…

4 hours ago

Logitech G Saitek PRO Flight Rudder Pedals

Fluid Motion: These flight rudder pedals are smooth and accurate that enable precise control over…

4 hours ago

Logitech G Saitek Farm Sim Controller

Heavy Equipment Bundle: Includes a steering wheel for heavy machinery, gas and brake pedals, and…

4 hours ago

Razer Ornata V3 X – Low Profile Gaming Keyboard

Low-profile Keys for an ergonomic gaming experience. With slimmer keycaps and shorter switches, enjoy natural…

4 hours ago

Glorious Gaming Model O Wired Gaming Mouse

Size & style: Ambidextrous lightweight mouse for gaming. Built for speed, control and comfort, with…

4 hours ago