Google has warned that nearly one billion Android users may face serious malware and spyware risks. The company said many older devices no longer receive security updates, making them easy targets for cyber criminals.
According to Google, about 40 percent of Android phones worldwide are now vulnerable to new threats. The main reason is that many devices are running outdated software. These phones no longer get regular security patches.
The issue has become more serious because Google has stopped providing security updates for phones running Android 12 or older. Devices released in 2021 or earlier are most likely to face new malware attacks. Experts say these phones can be exploited by hackers more easily.
Recent Android distribution data shows that only 57.9 percent of devices are running Android 13 or later. This means a large portion of users are still using older versions. Around 42.1 percent of Android phones no longer receive any security updates.
The data also shows the share of devices on newer Android versions. About 7.5 percent are running Android 16. Around 19.3 percent are on Android 15, while 17.2 percent use Android 14. Another 13.9 percent of devices are on Android 13.
The fragmented nature of the Android system makes the problem worse. Unlike iPhones, Android devices are made by many companies. Google develops the software, but different manufacturers control the updates. This often delays or stops security patches for older models.
Because of these risks, Google has advised users with outdated phones to upgrade their devices. The company said even a mid-range phone that supports Android 13 or higher can provide better protection.
Security experts also recommend checking the Android version in device settings. If the phone cannot be updated beyond Android 12, it may be safer to replace it.
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With cyber threats increasing, Google says upgrading to a newer device is the best way to stay protected. Users are encouraged to act quickly to avoid potential malware and spyware attacks.
