Android 16, the next major Android update, is introducing
advanced mobile network security features to protect users from fake and unsafe
connections. One of the standout features is the ability to detect and warn
users when their phone connects to a rogue mobile tower, also known as a
“stingray.” These devices mimic real cell towers to track locations and steal
personal data. When Android 16 detects such threats, it will alert users with a
warning and provide details about the attempted data access, such as your
device’s unique ID.
Unfortunately, most current Android smartphones won’t
support this feature, as it requires newer hardware. The upcoming Pixel 10,
expected to launch later this year, will likely be the first device to support
this network threat detection system. It works only with modems that support
Android Radio HAL 3.0, and the feature will be available under “Mobile Network
Security” in the Safety Centre of the Settings app.
Another key addition is 2G network protection, which blocks
older, insecure networks often used for surveillance. Android 16 also
introduces Advanced Protection Mode, a powerful security suite that:
Blocks 2G connections and insecure networks. Prevents USB
data transfers when locked. Enforces HTTPS-only browsing, Automatically reboots
the phone after 72 hours of inactivity. Stops sideloading of unverified apps
This mode is persistent and difficult to disable, ensuring
maximum data privacy. Once activated, your data remains encrypted and
unreadable until manually unlocked.
With Android 16’s enhanced mobile network security, users
will have a much stronger defence against surveillance and data theft—but only
on newer smartphones designed to handle these innovations.
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