Over 1 billion Android phones are now at risk Google warns

Google has warned that more than 40% of Android devices worldwide no longer receive critical security updates, leaving over 1 billion phones vulnerable to malware and spyware attacks.

The issue stems from outdated software rather than a sudden flaw. Phones running Android 12 or older are now outside Google’s full security support, meaning users no longer receive system-level fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities. 

While Google Play Protect still offers some protection—including real-time scanning and updated malware signatures for devices as far back as Android 7—older phones remain exposed to potential cyberattacks.

According to recent Android distribution data, only 58% of devices run Android 13 or newer. As of December 2025:

• Android 16: 7.5%
• Android 15: 19.3%
• Android 14: 17.9%
• Android 13: 13.9%

“These four Android versions matter because Google no longer provides critical system-level security fixes for Android 12 or older,” Forbes reported.

The risk is compounded by manufacturer support changes, particularly from Samsung. The company confirmed that the Galaxy S21 series no longer receives security updates, while the Galaxy S22 series and S21 FE have shifted from monthly to quarterly updates. Such slower update cadences widen the window of vulnerability for users.

Unlike Apple, which controls both hardware and software updates, Android depends on manufacturers to deliver patches. 

Phones are often abandoned after a few years, leaving users exposed to malware and other security threats, according to Gulf News.

Adding to the confusion, some users noticed their Google Play system update date rolled back from January 2026 to November 2025. 

Google clarified that this was a cosmetic display issue that does not affect device security and is being corrected.

Despite these protections, users with devices unable to run Android 13 or newer are left with limited options beyond replacing their phones. 

Even mid-range phones with active software support offer stronger protection than older flagship models, experts note.