14 DAY TRIAL // Essential informs its users about the available of a new software update for the Essential Phone Android-powered smartphones, which addresses critical security vulnerabilities in the OS.
According to Essential, who posted the update on Twitter this Monday, it would appear that the software update tagged as build NMJ20D patches the well-known KRACK (Key Reinstallation Attack) security vulnerability discovered in the WPA2 Wi-Fi protocol by security researcher Mathy Vanhoef.
The WPA2 KRACK bug makes any device that connects to the Internet and uses the WPA2 security protocol at risk of attacks. Hackers can use this critical vulnerability to monitor your network traffic and steal your credit card information, as well as other sensitive data like passwords and usernames.
Update your Essential Phone to build NMJ20D right now
Like any other smart device, the Essential Phone is vulnerable to KRACK attacks, so it is recommended that you update yours right now to the new software update (build NMJ20D) that rolls out to supported models as we speak. The update should be available in all markets soon.
Besides including the patch for the infamous WPA2 KRACK security vulnerability, the new software update appears to improved touch scrolling, some resolution/touch problems with certain games, as well as other small issues. However, some users now report slow charging and overall slowness after installing the update.
Maybe those issues are limited to some devices, but you should update your Essential Phone immediately to build NMJ20D if you want to make sure no one is sniffing your password, usernames, credit card details, or any other sensitive information you might have stored on your mobile phone.
On the same note, you should also make sure that your other smart devices you own, including Wi-Fi routers, smartwatches, laptops, etc., are up-to-date and the latest software version available for them include a patch for the WPA2 KRACK security vulnerability. If not, check for a beta update or simply stop using unpatched devices.
We're rolling out a software update (build NMJ20D) that includes improved touch scrolling, patch for KRACK vulnerability, and more. — Essential (@essential) October 30, 2017