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Samsung is fixing the Galaxy S10’s fingerprint sensor security issues

Specific "silicone screen protecting cases" are the cause of the problem, says Samsung

Galaxy S10

Following reports of issues related to the security of the Galaxy S10/S10+’s fingerprint sensor, Samsung says it has plans to fix the problems with an upcoming patch.

The S10’s ultrasonic fingerprint scanner reportedly authenticates with a 3D-printed fingerprint, and also unlocks for anyone when some third-party screen protectors have been applied to the smartphone. Now, Samsung has plans to fix these security flaws, according to a statement the South Korean tech giant sent MobileSyrup.

“We are investigating this issue and will be deploying a software patch soon. We encourage any customers with questions or who need support downloading the latest software to contact us directly at 1-800-SAMSUNG,” said Samsung.
Samsung also sent a statement to Android Central regarding specific “silicone screen protecting cases” being the cause of the problem.
“This issue involved ultrasonic fingerprint sensors unlocking devices after recognizing three-dimensional patterns appearing on certain silicone screen protecting cases as users’ fingerprints,” said Samsung in a statement to Android Central.

It’s currently unclear what is causing the problem given that ultrasonic scanning technology, which uses pulses to map the user’s fingers, is supposed to be more secure than the optical in-display fingerprint sensors featured in devices like the OnePlus 6T and Huawei Mate 20 Pro. Only specific, approved fingerprint sensors are compatible with the S10, according to Samsung.

It also doesn’t look like these security issues also affect the Galaxy Note 10, Samsung’s other flagship smartphone with an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor.

MobileSyrup has reached out to Samsung for more information.

Update 23/10/2019: Samsung has sent a notification to S10/s10+ owners stating an over-the-air (OTA) update that fixes the issue should hit all affected devices within 24 hours.

Update 18/10/2019: The story has been updated with a statement from Samsung, as well as information related to silicone cases being the cause of the security problem.

Source: Android Central 

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