how critical is it for security updates for my phone

[Android Central Question]

My Galaxy S9 will no longer get security updates. I have anti-virus and malware apps running on the phone. Should I be worried that Samsung no longer updates my phone?

 

[mustang7757]

Wouldn't trust it for sensitive data in my opinion , every month there security breaches.


I'll leave a Link to register so you can communicate here, As a guest account you can only post questions but can't reply
https://forums.androidcentral.com/showthread.php?t=409154

 

[belodion]

I don’t know, but it wouldn’t worry me.

 

[Mooncatt]

As long as you aren't going into places you shouldn't online, and not trying to download pirated apps, I wouldn't be concerned yet. I'm not aware of any security threats in the wild that have allowed a malware attack without the user taking at least one deliberate step to install it. I.e. Installing a pirated app or falling for a fake virus warning asking you to install their removal app.

I'd also go so far as uninstalling your anti-malware apps. About the only thing they are good for is sucking down your battery.

 

[methodman89]

My Galaxy S9 will no longer get security updates. I have anti-virus and malware apps running on the phone. Should I be worried that Samsung no longer updates my phone?

If it weren't important, would they keep updating all the newer phones? Hmmmm, imo, no

 

[rvbfan]

I've had "smart" phones since the GSII and original nexus. Never had and issue with a virus or hack, YMMV. That being said, I don't download stuff from sketchy sites. So for me it's nice for piece of mind.

 

[smvim]

I think it's something you should worry about, but don't get too worried. A fully patched, fully upgraded phone is safer to use online than one that isn't, but that's the point -- safer still is not absolutely safe. There simply is no such thing as a practical 100% solution. All our phones have weak points in them, it's just a matter of degree, and your own level of paranoia.
One good point is the apps on your phone will be continuing to receive updates/upgrades regularly for quite a bit longer. Those monthly security patches pertained to the installed Android operating system, not your installed apps, and It's the apps you use to directly interact with various online services so at least there's that.

So it isn't 'critical' but it is a good time for you to start shopping around for a new phone. There are a lot of choices out there now to pick from.
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[B. Diddy]

I'd be ok with using a phone that has hit its end of life for another year, maybe 2 at the most. But over time, as more security flaws are discovered and patched, the risk does start to go up.

 

[tube517]

I'm not too worried about security as I don't download from sketchy sites questionable apps. However, older phones will slowly go obsolete with newer apps as the apps get updated and get bigger.