Android 16 will warn about connecting to fake mobile networks that track users

The new Android 16 operating system will feature a feature that should improve user security by warning them about potentially dangerous mobile networks. According to Android Authority, the system will be able to detect fake cell towers that mimic real ones and are capable of intercepting data from mobile devices.

Once connected to these pseudo-towers (also known as StingRay), devices can become a source of leakage of sensitive information, including the user's location. The innovation involves notifications about connecting to unencrypted networks or requests for access to the phone's unique identifiers.

These features are expected to be available only on next-generation smartphones due to the lack of hardware in current models. The first compatible devices are likely to be the Pixel 10 series smartphones, which are expected to arrive this summer.

Users will be able to activate new options in settings, including "network notifications" and "2G network protection" to avoid outdated and unsafe connection types.