Google is taking an important step in mobile security by adding a warning system against fake base stations to Android 16. Thanks to the new security feature, users will be warned when their phones connect to fake or unsecured mobile networks. This step is a direct precaution against the security threat posed by tracking devices called “stingray”.

Android 16 will warn against fake base stations

Stingray devices act like real base stations and force nearby mobile devices to connect to them. When this connection is made, attackers can collect the device’s IMEI numbers and force the connection to switch to older, weakly secure communication protocols. This can lead to serious security vulnerabilities such as location tracking and monitoring of unencrypted voice calls and text messages.

The new network notification feature notifies the user when the phone thinks it has encountered a fake base station. These notifications are activated when the network cannot verify its identity, does not use encryption, or tries to collect identifying information. Users are warned about potential surveillance risks if they connect to such networks.

This security update will not be available on every Android device. Due to new hardware requirements, the feature will only be active on new devices released with Android 16. It is stated that this function will not come to existing Android phones.

This new security layer, which comes with Android 16, takes device security one step further, especially for users living in high-risk areas or conducting sensitive communications. So what do you think about this? You can share your opinions with us in the comments section below.