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Could your phone become the weakest link in your establishment's digital security? Recent findings suggest that seemingly harmless video calls might lead to compromised Android phones. Learn more about it here.
A Video Call Vulnerability in Unisoc Modem Firmware
An independent security researcher under the alias "0x50594d" discovered a modem firmware vulnerability in the Unisoc system-on-chips (SoCs) of some budget Android phones. During a video call, an attacker can send malicious code through the call's setup messages. That code can escape the modem's security boundaries and execute with kernel-level privileges because of the improper isolation of shared resources inside the SoC.
In other words, the attacker may gain unrestricted access to the victim's phone. A compromised device may lead to the following consequences for businesses:
- Potential installation of malware through remote code execution
- Unauthorized access to company applications
- Exposed customer and business partner information
- Login credentials and authentication token theft
- Intercepted business communications
- Compromised accounts linked to the device
- Disrupted business operations
Are Your Android Smartphones at Risk?
The vulnerability affects certain Android phones powered by Unisoc T606, T612, T616, and T7250 chipsets. Researchers identified the Motorola E13, Realme C33, and Xiaomi Redmi A5 among the potentially affected models.
Business owners, however, should keep the findings in perspective. The researchers demonstrated the exploit under specific, controlled conditions, rather than by simply calling an ordinary phone over a standard mobile network.
They used a private 4G/VoLTE network they controlled, and the target device had to answer the incoming video call. The test also relied on a phone with particular firmware and security-patch configurations. That means a video call alone doesn't automatically compromise every affected phone.
Addressing Potential Security Vulnerabilities
It never hurts to stay proactive when it comes to protecting your business's digital ecosystem. Consider taking the following steps.
Keep Your Devices Updated
Install Android software updates and manufacturer firmware patches as soon as they become available. They can address security vulnerabilities in the modem and other components attackers may target.
Identify Affected Devices
Check company phones to see whether they use the affected Unisoc chipsets. If a device uses an affected component, verify whether its manufacturer has released a patch for the vulnerability.
Limit Sensitive Access
Don't give vulnerable or outdated phones unnecessary access to business systems. Where possible, use multi-factor authentication (MFA) and restrict access to sensitive applications from devices that don't meet your security requirements.
Monitor for Suspicious Activity
With mobile device management (MDM) and endpoint security tools, you can keep a lookout for unusual account activity, unexpected application behavior, or unexplained data usage. When a phone suddenly behaves strangely after receiving an unexpected call, your IT team should investigate it thoroughly.
Protect Your Business, One Device at a Time
A vulnerable mobile phone can create an unexpected opening into your business's digital ecosystem. While this exploit requires specific conditions, it still highlights the importance of mobile security. Planning ahead reduces the risks associated with compromised Android phones and malicious video calls.
