Android 12 allows you to turn off 2G. This is due to security issues

Android 12 has brought a number of interesting innovations, with the new design, redesigned widgets and better privacy protection gaining the most attention. However, Google has quietly added the option to ban connecting to the 2G network, according to the Android Police portal.

2G networks are not secure

Why did the technology giant decide to add such a seemingly unnecessary feature? While the 2G network is still in full operation in Slovakia, some countries have begun to restrict its use for security reasons. Launched in 1991, the technology is vulnerable and uses outdated security methods.

First of all, the encryption of calls and text messages is not strong enough, so cyber attackers can easily access them. The lack of authentication of transmitters is also a problem, which in turn allows attackers to simulate a fake transmitter and gain access to data from mobile devices through it.

Modern smartphones use 4G or 5G most of the time. However, in areas with poor coverage, it will automatically connect to a 3G or 2G network, which may expose your device to security threats. The possibility of disabling connection to the 2G network in the system settings should protect you from this risk.

The ability to use only 3G, 4G and 5G networks came with Android 12, but not all updated smartphones have it. It requires version 1.6 of the Radio HAL service, which many devices coming from Android 11 do not have. However, smartphones with pre-installed Android 12, such as models from the Google Pixel 6 series, support this option.

Google Pixel 6