If you’re an Android user then you need to know about a new exploit that could allow someone to take over your phone just by sending you a video message.
The bug has been named “Stagefright”
Security researchers at Zimperium have discovered an exploit that lets attackers take control if they send a MMS video with a virus embedded in it.
Google have said they are on top of this and are sednign out update to hardware partners however, whether or not you’ll get that fix will depend on your phone’s manufacturer.
Zimperium tells Forbes that the Nexus 6 and Blackphone are already safe against some of the related flaws (other Nexus devices are likely in a similar boat), but more common third-party phones from Samsung, HTC and others are typically still vulnerable. It’s also unclear as to whether or not these companies will deliver fixes to their relatively recent devices in a timely manner, or at all. Depending on when you got your handset, it might remain exposed.
Good news, there is an App, released by Zimperium, the Stagefright Detector App , to at least let you know if you’re patched against it. Google issued a fix a while ago, and you’re protected if you have a Nexus device. But if you own nearly any other smartphone, even a brand new one like Samsung’s Galaxy S6, you’re probably still at risk.
Devices from manufacturers like Samsung, HTC and LG are most at risk.
