Did you know
that it is not only desktop computers that can be attacked by viruses?
Smartphones
and tablets are also vulnerable, and the Australian Government Stay Smart
Online Alert Service has recently issued two warnings in relation to such devices.
Both alerts
have High Priority so if you have a relevant device it would be wise to explore
further and take appropriate action if necessary.
The alerts
are:
iOS update issued to address
vulnerability: Alert Priority High
Apple has
released a security update for the iOS mobile operating system that runs on
devices such as iPhones, iPads and the iPod touch. The update addresses a
vulnerability that, according to US-CERT, ‘may allow a remote attacker to take
control of an affected system’.
Apple has
made the update available for iPhone 4s and later, iPad 2 and later and iPod
touch (5th generation and later). You are advised to review the Apple advisory
here (https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207026) and apply the update as
required.
Updates close
vulnerabilities in computer systems that remote attackers can otherwise use to
gain access to systems or information (such as online banking details). A
vulnerability is a weakness that can leave a computer and its systems open to
attack. Attacks can be carried out a number of ways, including through
malicious software (malware) such as viruses and spyware that can monitor a
users’ activity on a computer and stop systems operating properly.
Around 10 million Australian Android
devices affected by Quadrooter: Alert Priority High
New
vulnerabilities have reportedly been uncovered that may affect up to 10 million
smartphones and tablets in Australia. The vulnerabilities are believed to
potentially allow attackers to take control of devices running the popular
Android mobile operating system.
According to
news reports, because the ‘Quadrooter’ vulnerabilities reportedly exist in
software drivers for chipsets commonly used in Android devices, users need to
rely on updates being provided by distributors or telecommunications companies.
These businesses need first to receive the updates from Qualcomm, the vendor
whose chipsets are reportedly affected by the vulnerability.
Security
researchers claim that attackers could use a malicious application to
infiltrate an unprotected Android device and gain access to sensitive
information without a user knowing.
According to
the researchers, the list of affected manufacturers includes the most popular
smartphones in Australia, including devices from:
• Google
• Samsung
• Sony
• LG
The reports
reinforce the importance of applying software updates as they become available,
and avoiding downloading and installing suspicious apps.
You are
advised to ensure that your Android device is set to automatically receive
security updates, and to ensure the latest updates have been applied. In the
case of Quadrooter, you may check with your telecommunications provider as to
the availability of a security update for your smartphone, tablet or similar
device. Stay Smart Online also advises that you only install trusted apps from
official app stores, especially on devices that carry any personal information.
Smartphones
and tablets are portable computers, and should be treated as such. This
includes installing antivirus software and being careful when running apps or
opening files from untrusted sources.
If you wish
to visit Stay Smart Online it can be found at www.staysmartonline.gov.au and
you can subscribe to receive alerts as they are issued.
(Source: Neighbourhood WatchQueensland Blog post dated 10 August 2016 with some editorial changes)
