Android users given 'critical' warning and urged to restart their devices now
Android users are being urged to update their smartphones as soon as possible. A new security update from Google has been released that fixes bugs in the system that have been given a 'critical' rating.
For those wanting to keep their devices safe, it is vital to follow the tech firm's advice. Fixing a total of six issues currently within Android's platform, everyone who uses the popular operating system is being urged to pay attention to the current security update.
While this may seem like a smaller update compared to other months, this does not mean it should be ignored for a later date. In fact, one expert has said the criticality "cannot be understated".
Adam Boynton, senior security manager EMEIS at Jamf, highlighted some of the key reasons why Android users should follow the Goolge advice.
He said: "While August's Android Security Bulletin is lighter in volume compared to earlier this year, the criticality of the patched issues cannot be understated.
"Perhaps most concerning is CVE‑2025‑48530, a critical system-level vulnerability allowing remote code execution without user interaction."
This means that if Android users ignore this crucial update, they could be leaving their phone vulnerable to being overhauled and controlled by a hacker. The most worrying part is that the smartphone user wouldn't even be aware it was happening, reports the Express.
On top of this, the latest system update also fixes an issue that could lead to targeted exploitation if ignored. This significant threat was discovered by tech giant Qualcomm.
They confirmed: "There are indications from Google Threat Analysis Group that CVE-2025-21479, CVE-2025-21480, CVE-2025-27038 may be under limited, targeted exploitation.
"Patches for the issues affecting the Adreno Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) driver have been made available to OEMs in May together with a strong recommendation to deploy the update on affected devices as soon as possible."
While experts are unsure if Android users have been under attack by hackers, it is best to proceed with caution and update your device when alerted of a system upgrade.
As Google provides their software and system updates to all Android devices, the Google Pixel smartphones will be the first to receive the update alert.
Other manufacturers such as Samsung, OnePlus and Motorola will then send out their own updates in the coming weeks to provide the latest level of security to your phones.
In order to not miss this update, it is important to keep an eye on your settings app. If there is a system update available, it is important to install it straight away and restart your device in order to provide an extra wall of security against current and future hacks.
Hacking into your phone's system isn't the only way that cyber crooks can infiltrate your tech and steal your personal and financial data, they can also do so by controlling popular apps.
Recently Action Fraud reported a spike in incidents on WhatsApp, which has seen hackers takeover accounts and start sending messages to your contacts to steal money and data.
Those impacted by this attack have found themselves locked out of their accounts, which has stopped them from accessing their current chats or contacts to warn others of the breach.
On X Action Fraud said: "Protect your WhatsApp account against hackers. We continue to see a rise in the number of reports relating to WhatsApp account takeovers."
WhatsApp users can protect their accounts by authorising a two-step verification, being wary of any unexpected messages or requests and calling their contacts to help verify their identity.
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