Google has announced that Android 14 will receive additional security updates.

Android 14 gets new security updates. According to Google, it is the first time that a mobile operating system has such features.

That is new

What immediately catches the eye is the ability for IT admins to disable 2G support on devices managed by a company. Google is also introducing the ability to disable cellular connectivity using zero encryption. Fortunately, this does not stand in the way of emergency calls and you can still make them if necessary.

The Android security model assumes that every network is potentially hostile. Therefore, the operating system requires all network traffic to be end-to-end encrypted. This provides better protection against counterfeit cellular base stations, the outdated 2G, or the cell tower mimic tech called Stingray.

Why

The world is rapidly transitioning from 4G networks to 5G, but that doesn’t mean older networks are no longer active. Almost all mobile devices still support 2G and when that is the only available network, a device will automatically connect to it. However, this can also be activated remotely.

As networks evolve, so does security. That is, older versions do not complement more modern security systems. Devices connected to a network like 2G are much more vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks and decryption of their network traffic.

Null encryption is mainly used for sending SMS messages and making calls. However, this encryption is a single layer that is additionally performed within the network. In other words: As a user, you have no insight into it. You may be thinking that you hardly text anymore, but remember that multi-factor authentication is often done via a code sent via SMS. This system is then endangered by the aforementioned Stingray.

In March of this year, Google released a first public beta of Android 14, after reports that this version will be significantly more battery and memory efficient. A first preview will be available from February.