In case you missed it, Google’s Project Zero has discovered 18 zero-day vulnerabilities in Exynos modems. These Exynos vulnerabilities leave several Samsung Galaxy devices and Google Pixel phones vulnerable to internet-to-baseband remote code execution.
The good news is that Samsung has already fixed some security flaws with the Exynos March 2023 security patch. However, not all have been fixed. That means if you have an Exynos 850, Exynos 1280 or Exynos 2200 modem in your phone, you are still at risk!
What you should do to protect yourself from Exynos vulnerabilities
At its core, Exynos vulnerabilities require certain 5G features to be enabled. Although more patches regarding the bugs are on the way, they may take some time. So, by disabling these 5G features at this moment, you can protect yourself from security vulnerabilities.
How to protect Pixel 6 from Exynos vulnerabilities
- Go to the Settings app on your Pixel
- Navigate to Network & Internet
- Find and tap Calls & SMS
- Look for WiFi calling and make sure you turn it off for both Sims
For Galaxy S22 or other Galaxy devices
- Go to the Settings app on your Galaxy device
- Select Connections
- Togg WiFi calling off
- Tap Cellular Networks
- Find VoLTE Call Settings and turn it off
You may not have VoLTE settings on your phone. It just depends on the carrier you rely on. So if you don’t find it, there’s nothing you can do to turn it off. But just to be sure, you can always search for “VoLTE” in the settings menu. If you see settings, turn them off to protect yourself from Exynos vulnerabilities. Note that with the Google Pixel 6, the 2021 updates automatically enabled it and removed the switch.
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In short, as long as you turn off WiFi calling and VoLTE, you don’t have to worry too much about Exynos security flaws. And make sure to update your phone as soon as a patch is available.