Google recommends turning off 2G signals to prevent fraud

Phishing via SMS - this somewhat "primitive" form of remote attack has become popular in Vietnam and around the world. Bad guys will impersonate reputable organizations and businesses such as banks, state agencies. to send messages containing links to a website or malware to the victim. If the victim clicks on it, the thief can secretly install malicious code on the phone to steal personal data or spread viruses to many other devices.

The 2G network began to be commercialized in 1991 and is now outdated and contains security holes that are no longer patched. Therefore, hackers can take advantage of limitations in the authentication process between mobile devices and the 2G network to "interfere" in the communication process (sending and receiving messages), and intervene to create base stations. fake waves, disguising signals to send fraudulent messages, executing campaigns without users knowing.

Every time a nearby device wants to connect, the base station will force the phone to lower to receive the 2G signal. At that time, a series of SMS messages containing links to websites and malicious code will be sent to the user's computer.

Recently, Google confirmed this threat and recommended that Android smartphone users turn off this connection on their phones.

Recommendations from Google received agreement from the Global Mobile Communications System Association (GSMA). The association added that in case 2G is needed to contact emergency services, users should still open the connection on the phone.

However, the operation to turn off 2G signals on Android smartphones is only open depending on the market and each phone company will have different operations. Users can actively check on their phone by accessing Settings -> Network & Internet -> SIM Card -> in the SIM card's mobile connection management section, turning on the "Allow 2G connection" button. " about gray.

In Vietnam, the 2G network will officially stop operating from September 15, 2024.

Marvin Fry

Update 15 August 2024