Strict Standards: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/noahjames7/public_html/modules/mod_flexi_customcode/tmpl/default.php on line 24

Strict Standards: Non-static method modFlexiCustomCode::parsePHPviaFile() should not be called statically in /home/noahjames7/public_html/modules/mod_flexi_customcode/tmpl/default.php on line 54

Strict Standards: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/noahjames7/public_html/components/com_grid/GridBuilder.php on line 29
angry androidThe Register
Derek Walter
If no one has been able to convince you to take your device’s security seriously, perhaps this hack will do it.A video uncovered by Ars Technica shows someone able to use the emergency call access to gain entry to a locked phone, even though it’s protected with a password.The individual in the video types a large string of characters into the call window and copies them to the device’s clipboard. The hacker is then able to open the camera from the locked device, access the options menu, and paste several characters into the password prompt. The phone then unlocks. The vulnerability was introduced in Android 5.0 and was fixed in the LMY48M Android 5.1.1 build released to Nexus devices (you can always grab it yourself from the Nexus Factory Images page.) However, the vast majority of Android handsets aren’t of the Nexus variety, which means you’re vulnerable to this hack until your device is updates. Fortunately, the attack only works if you use a password to unlock your device; you can use a PIN or pattern unlock to protect yourself. If you use a fingerprint unlock, you would need to have a PIN or pattern as the backup to fully stay secure.Why this matters: It hasn’t been a great year for Android security, as this minor hack comes after the big scare of Stagefright. It demonstrates that Google and device manufacturers all need to step up their game so everyone can enjoy better security and not worry about a new hack every week.

For comprehensive coverage of the Android ecosystem, visit Greenbot.com.

Report: New hack lets an attacker bypass password-locked Android home screens

Shop ▾

arrow up Amazon Shop buttons are programmatically attached to all reviews, regardless of products' final review scores. Our parent company, IDG, receives advertisement revenue for shopping activity generated by the links. Because the buttons are attached programmatically, they should not be interpreted as editorial endorsements.
Derek Walter

Derek Walter

Follow me on Google+

Derek Walter is a freelance technology writer based in Northern California. He is the author of Learning MIT App Inventor, a hands-on guide to building your own Android apps.
More by Derek Walter

Subscribe to the Best of PCWorld Newsletter

Read more http://www.pcworld.com/article/2984457/android/report-new-hack-lets-an-attacker-bypass-password-locked-android-home-screens.html#tk.rss_all


Strict Standards: Only variables should be assigned by reference in /home/noahjames7/public_html/modules/mod_flexi_customcode/tmpl/default.php on line 24

Strict Standards: Non-static method modFlexiCustomCode::parsePHPviaFile() should not be called statically in /home/noahjames7/public_html/modules/mod_flexi_customcode/tmpl/default.php on line 54

Find out more by searching for it!

Custom Search







Strict Standards: Non-static method modBtFloaterHelper::fetchHead() should not be called statically in /home/noahjames7/public_html/modules/mod_bt_floater/mod_bt_floater.php on line 21