This message applies to ALL smartphones running Android. That means if you have a Samsung, HTC, LG, Motorola, Sony, ANY smartphone running Android you need to take action as detailed in this blog post.
Some of you may be aware of a security alert called Stagefright. It is a problem for Android smartphones that is serious enough for you to take action, NOW. While it only affects MMS messages, everyone still needs to take action and turnoff the auto-retrieval of MMS messages.
If you currently use MMS messages regularly (whether work or personal) we strongly recommend that you move to using an application like Google Hangouts. There are other possiblities, however using Google Hangouts and your salvationarmy.org.nz account will tie everything together (e.g. Google Drive and Apps data) and enable you to see the complete Territorial directory.
Even if you don't think you receive MMS messages you need to make the following changes to any/all of the applications listed below that you have on your phone. Also if you're using a different app for SMS messages then check the configuration of that and ensure it is set to NOT AUTOMATICALLY DOWNLOAD MMS messages.
The rest of this blog post shows the different apps you MAY be using for SMS messages and how to change the settings to protect yourself.
Messaging, Messenger, Samsung Messages, Hangouts, whatever messaging app you use, they will ALL need to be updated IF they're on your phone. It only takes 30 seconds and will protect you.
In each case you need to follow these steps:
- Launch the app (e.g. Messenger)
- Click on the menu / hamburger button
- Select settings
- Go to advanced settings
- Ensure auto-retrieve of MMS (multimedia) messages is switched OFF
Beneath here are screenshots for Messaging, Messenger, Samsung Messages, and Hangouts. Each screenshot has a number that corresponds to the above list of steps you must take. Thanks for taking the necessary steps to protect you and your device.
MESSAGING
- Scroll down
MESSENGER
SAMSUNG MESSAGES
HANGOUTS
