Security updates are essential for keeping your Android phone protected from the latest threats, bugs, and privacy vulnerabilities. But not all devices receive these updates forever — especially if your phone is a few years old. Wondering whether your Android is still secure? In this guide, we’ll show you how to check if your Android phone is still receiving security updates — and what to do if it’s not.
🤔 Why Security Updates Matter
Security updates patch vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit to access your personal information. These updates help protect:
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Your contacts and messages
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App data and login credentials
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Bank info and payment methods
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Camera, microphone, and location access
Without these updates, your phone could become a target for malware, phishing attacks, or data theft — even if it seems to be working fine.
✅ How to Check for Security Updates on Your Android Phone
Follow these steps to check your device’s update status:
📱 Step 1: Open Settings
Go to your phone’s Settings app.
🔍 Step 2: Tap on Security or About Phone
Depending on your device brand, look for one of the following:
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Security
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Software Update
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About Phone > Android Version
📆 Step 3: Look at the Security Patch Level
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You’ll see a line that says something like:
“Android security update: March 5, 2025” -
This shows the last date your phone received a security update.
🧠 Step 4: Compare Against Current Patch Releases
Google releases monthly security bulletins. You can check the latest update dates here:
👉 Android Security Bulletins
If your phone hasn’t received an update in 3–6 months (or more), it may no longer be supported.
🏭 Manufacturer Support Varies
Each phone brand has its own update policy. Here are general guidelines:
| Brand | Typical Security Support |
|---|---|
| Google Pixel | 3–5 years |
| Samsung | 4–5 years (newer models) |
| OnePlus | 3–4 years |
| Xiaomi | 2–3 years |
| Motorola | 2 years (most models) |
You can check your phone’s exact update policy on the manufacturer’s website.
🚨 Signs Your Phone No Longer Gets Security Updates
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You haven’t seen a software update in over 6 months
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Your Android version is older than 11
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Your phone is over 3 years old and not a flagship model
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You see “up to date” but the patch date is very old
🛠 What to Do If You’re No Longer Receiving Updates
🔁 Option 1: Upgrade to a Newer Device
If your phone no longer gets updates, the best move is to upgrade to a supported device, especially if you handle sensitive data or use mobile banking.
🧱 Option 2: Install a Custom ROM (Advanced Users)
Custom ROMs like LineageOS can bring newer Android versions and security patches to older devices — but this requires technical skills and may void warranties.
🛡 Option 3: Tighten Your Security
If upgrading isn’t an option right now:
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Only install apps from the Play Store
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Avoid suspicious links or messages
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Use a VPN and secure lock screen
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Back up data regularly
🧾 Final Thoughts
Your phone might still work just fine — but without security updates, it’s exposed to real risks. It only takes a few minutes to check if you’re still protected. Knowing your phone’s update status helps you make smarter, safer choices.
Stay secure. Stay updated.
