Indian Government Issues Security Alert for Android Smartphones with Qualcomm Chipsets
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A significant security alert has been issued by the Indian government regarding Android smartphones powered by Qualcomm chipsets. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), the national cybersecurity agency, has flagged multiple vulnerabilities that could put millions of users at risk.
The alert stems from findings originally identified by Google's Threat Analysis Group. Qualcomm has since published a comprehensive security advisory detailing these vulnerabilities.
The government’s advisory emphasizes that Qualcomm chipsets support a broad spectrum of modern devices that utilize advanced AI, connectivity, and processing capabilities. Multiple security flaws have been detected across various Qualcomm platforms, impacting both consumers and enterprise-level devices.
These chipsets are used in a variety of devices ranging from budget smartphones to premium flagship models, making the issue particularly widespread.
To safeguard their devices, users are strongly advised to install the latest Android security patches. Most smartphone brands using Qualcomm hardware are expected to have rolled out the necessary updates by now.
Scroll down and tap on System Updates
Tap on Check for Updates
If available, Download and Install the update
Once installed, Reboot your device
After the reboot, your device will be running the updated Android security patch, which is designed to neutralize the identified vulnerabilities.
The alert stems from findings originally identified by Google's Threat Analysis Group. Qualcomm has since published a comprehensive security advisory detailing these vulnerabilities.
Nature of the Security Threat
According to CERT-In, these vulnerabilities are classified as "high severity." If exploited, attackers could gain access to sensitive information and execute arbitrary code on affected devices. The vulnerabilities affect a wide range of Qualcomm components, including processors, GPUs, and Wi-Fi modems—many of which are found in popular Android smartphones.The government’s advisory emphasizes that Qualcomm chipsets support a broad spectrum of modern devices that utilize advanced AI, connectivity, and processing capabilities. Multiple security flaws have been detected across various Qualcomm platforms, impacting both consumers and enterprise-level devices.
Affected Qualcomm Chipsets
The report lists several widely used chipsets that are vulnerable to these risks. Notable mentions include:- Snapdragon 480+ 5G
- Snapdragon 662
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (2024 flagship)
These chipsets are used in a variety of devices ranging from budget smartphones to premium flagship models, making the issue particularly widespread.
Qualcomm’s Response and Mitigation Measures
Qualcomm has acknowledged the vulnerabilities and is working closely with its partners to address them. Some of the vulnerabilities may already have been exploited in the wild, according to CERT-In.To safeguard their devices, users are strongly advised to install the latest Android security patches. Most smartphone brands using Qualcomm hardware are expected to have rolled out the necessary updates by now.
How to Update Your Device
To apply the latest Android security patch (expected to be the May 2025 update), users should follow these steps:- Open Settings on your device
Looking Ahead
Security updates from major smartphone brands are expected to continue rolling out in the coming days. Users are encouraged to keep their devices up to date and remain cautious about app downloads and suspicious activity. CERT-In will continue to monitor the situation and provide further updates as needed.Next Story