Samsung has just issued a concerning security alert regarding a major vulnerability affecting many Galaxy devices equipped with Exynos processors. It threatens not only its smartphones, but also its connected watches.
Samsung announced thata vulnerability currently affected devices with processors Exynos 9820, 9825, 980, 990, 850 and W920. Among the affected models are the popular Galaxy S20, Note 20, S10 and Note 10, as well as the Galaxy A21, A51 and A71. The Galaxy Watch 4, Watch 5 and Watch FE connected watches are not spared.
According to Google security experts, this flaw allows hackers togain system privileges and execute malicious code on targeted devices. Even more worrying, the malicious code can masquerade as a legitimate Samsung process, making it virtually undetectable during usual system scans.
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Your Galaxy devices with Exynos chips could become a target for hackers
The potential consequences are alarming. Attackers can access users’ banking information, personal messages and photos. Google’s threat analysis team has already identified several cases where malicious actors have successfully exploited this vulnerability.
Faced with this critical situation, Samsung quickly reacted by deploying security patches. “ We strongly recommend that all users of affected devices install the latest security update as soon as it becomes available », Declares the South Korean giant. In the meantime, it is advisable toAvoid installation of applications from unknown sources.
This discovery comes at a delicate time for Samsung, which is considering abandoning Exynos processors for its upcoming Galaxy S25 series. Samsung Foundry’s performance issues also led to the abandonment of a factory in Taylor, Texas, before it was fully operational.
If you own any of the mentioned devices, as Samsung advises, it is highly recommended that you update your system immediately. In addition to updates, exercise caution avoiding downloading apps from untrusted sources and remaining vigilant for suspicious activity on your device.