Samsung didn't waste any time in releasing the January 2024 security patch for some devices after the new year kicked off, and it has now published details about the patch on its security bulletin website. As always, the new patch includes security fixes for vulnerabilities that affect all Android devices and some that only apply to Galaxy smartphones and tablets.
The January patch contains fixes from Google for 75 vulnerabilities found in the core Android operating system. Among those 75, one is deemed critical, 68 are deemed high-risk, and the remaining are classified as posing a moderate threat.
January patch for Samsung Galaxy devices fixes 80+ security flaws
For Galaxy devices, Samsung has detailed five vulnerabilities. One vulnerability allowed the owner of a device to access other users' notifications when multiple user accounts are set up (this only applies to tablets, as Galaxy phones don't support multi-user functionality). Samsung has also patched flaws that could allow attackers to create files using the My Files app and pair Bluetooth devices without user interaction.
Samsung has kept details on some vulnerabilities under wraps to prevent attackers from taking advantage of them. Overall, the January patch is a little less exciting than the patches released in the previous few months. Particularly noteworthy is the fact that Samsung's semiconductor division hasn't contributed to the latest patch, unlike the last two patches that fixed vulnerabilities affecting several Exynos chips.
Samsung has already released the January 2024 security update for some devices and will bring it to many more eligible devices over the next few weeks. The update, once it is available for your device and country, will be downloadable from your Galaxy phone or tablet's Settings » Software update menu.
