June’s Android security update stands out as one of the most significant of 2026, patching a total of 124 security vulnerabilities. One critical flaw has already been under active exploitation by hackers. If you use an Android smartphone, it's wise to check your update status and install any available patches as soon as possible.
Critical Vulnerability Actively Exploited
At the center of this security update is CVE-2025-48595, a critical vulnerability in the Android framework—the very heart of the operating system. This flaw lets an attacker gain elevated privileges on your device without any action from you. According to Google, there are signs that limited, targeted attacks have taken place. The company hasn’t disclosed who may be responsible or how the exploit works in detail. Devices running Android 14, 15, 16, and 16 QPR2 are all at risk, meaning even recent models could be affected.
Large-Scale Patch: What Else Was Fixed?
Beyond this actively exploited vulnerability, Google addressed 123 other security issues. The update rolled out in two phases. The June 1, 2026, patch covered Android’s main components and fixed 18 vulnerabilities labeled as critical. The June 5, 2026, patch added fixes for the kernel as well as drivers from chip manufacturers like Qualcomm and MediaTek. To stay protected, your device just needs to have received either of these two updates.
Who Gets the Update—And When?
The speed at which your device receives these patches varies greatly depending on the manufacturer. Google Pixel phones usually get updates first, though the rollout is gradual. Current Samsung Galaxy models often receive patches within a few days. By contrast, if you own a budget or mid-range device that's been around for a couple of years, the update could take weeks to appear. This gap explains why many users might not have installed the update yet, even if it’s available for their model.
How to Check Your Security Status
To confirm your device's security update, open Settings, then tap Security & privacy, followed by System & updates. Look for Security update and check the listed date. If it reads June 1, 2026, or June 5, 2026, you’re up to date. If it's earlier, look for new updates in the same menu and install any available. The menu names can vary slightly by device, but the general steps are the same.
Keeping your device’s security patches current is the best way to guard against evolving threats—giving you reassurance as you use your phone for browsing, streaming, or staying connected.
