A couple of days after Google posted its Android Security Bulletin for this month, the Samsung February 2019 security patch has now been detailed. Samsung releases monthly security maintenance updates for many of its devices to deliver fixes from Google and patches for its own software.
We've seen new security patches actually coming out before they were detailed in recent months. That hasn't happened yet this month. Samsung hasn't released the February 2019 security patch for any device as of now.
Samsung February 2019 security patch
All of the fixes included in the Android Security Bulletin – Feb 2019 package are present in this security maintenance release. It fixes five critical vulnerabilities in addition to dozens of high and one moderate risk Android OS vulnerability.
One of the vulnerabilities fixed by Google could enable a remote attacker to run arbitrary code on a target's device using a specially crafted PNG file in the context of a privileged process. Another could enable a malicious app to run arbitrary code on the device without the user knowing about it.
12 Samsung Vulnerabilities and Exposures items have also been fixed with this security patch. One such vulnerability allowed access to learned words through S Voice on the lock screen. Some of the patched items have not been disclosed in the interest of security.
The Samsung February 2019 security patch will soon be rolling out to compatible devices. We can expect the flagships to get it first before the others do. Users will be required to wait a bit before their devices receive the latest security maintenance release. We'll be sure to let you know once it starts rolling out.
