Google is about to 'lock' banking apps on old Android phones
Google is preparing to tighten security on Android phones, which could mean banking apps won't work on older phones. If you're still using a device running Android 12 or earlier, it's time to reconsider.
In an era where smartphones have become almost everyone's "digital wallet", ensuring the security of mobile devices is not just an option but a must.
From ordering food to paying bills to managing your entire bank account, your phone holds a wealth of highly sensitive personal and financial information. And the trust we place in it depends largely on one factor: security updates.
A recent report revealed that Google is quietly implementing a new security standard for Android devices, starting with Android 13 and above.
Accordingly, phones that have not received a security patch within the last 12 months may be restricted from accessing or using applications that require a high level of security, especially banking, financial applications and enterprise tools.
Software Updates: The Key to Protecting You from Invisible Risks
Unlike feature updates that bring new interfaces or improved utilities, monthly security patches quietly address vulnerabilities that hackers are actively exploiting. Ignoring them is like leaving your front door unlocked, making it easy for intruders to find a way in.
Google is testing a new “security check” that aims to ensure that newer Android devices are not just patch-ready, but actually updated regularly. This creates an important layer of screening, especially for users who are conducting financial transactions from their mobile devices.
Bad news for old Android phones
The problem becomes more serious when considering the number of devices still running on older Android versions like Android 12, 11, 10, or even older.
Not only are these devices outdated in features, but more importantly, they stopped receiving security patches from the manufacturer, possibly months to years ago.
That means if you're using an old Android phone to transfer money, pay bills, or store sensitive financial data, you're putting yourself at risk.
An unpatched security hole can become an open door for malware that can steal passwords, track keystrokes, or worse, make unauthorized transactions without your knowledge.
It’s no coincidence that Google and security experts are targeting banking apps. They’re the most lucrative targets for cybercriminals.
They are constantly looking for opportunities to exploit vulnerable devices, where even a small vulnerability can cause major damage.
In that context, Google's move to tighten security standards is an effort to establish a more solid defense foundation for sensitive applications.
Consider this if you're still using an older Android phone.
It would be unfair not to acknowledge the progress made by major manufacturers like Samsung and Google in extending the update support period, even up to 7 years for some high-end phone models.
However, there are still millions of Android devices that are no longer supported, and users continue to use them for important tasks, including banking.
If you're using a device running Android 12 or lower, it's time to check your software version and when the last security update was in the Settings app.Setting>About the phone.
If your device is “out of support,” seriously consider upgrading it or avoiding using it for financial tasks.
That old phone may still work fine, but its ability to defend itself against modern threats is no longer a sure thing.
And in an age of ever-evolving cybercrime, you can't afford to leave your financial security at the mercy of an outdated device.
