Android Devices Running Deprecated OS Versions and Vulnerable to Critical Vulnerabilities: Samsung S20 Series at Risk

A staggering one billion Android devices worldwide are currently running on deprecated operating system versions, leaving them vulnerable to numerous disclosed security vulnerabilities, including critical ones. This alarming statistic includes flagship devices like the Samsung S20 series, which have been at the forefront of this concerning trend since 2020.

According to statcounter.com, over a third (34.5%) of all Android devices globally are still operating on version 11 or older, which no longer receives security updates. With Android powering over three billion devices worldwide, this means that more than one billion devices are now unsupported by crucial security patches.

Even Android 11, which is still running on 13.65% of Android devices, received its last security update over six months ago in February 2024. This leaves these devices susceptible to potential cyber threats and attacks.

The popular Samsung Galaxy S20 series, with known sales of at least 28 million units, is also facing a similar fate. Support for models like the Galaxy S20 Ultra, S20+, and S20 has already ended, making them easy targets for cybercriminals. While Samsung is committed to providing security updates for its devices for up to five years, many older models are no longer receiving support.

As these devices reach their end-of-life status, they become more vulnerable to security threats, including zero-day exploits and other unpatched vulnerabilities. It is crucial for users to be aware of the risks associated with using outdated devices and take necessary precautions to protect their personal data and privacy.