Android 17 gets a smart new shield to stop Wi-Fi tracking
Google is adding new privacy protections in Android 17 that make it harder for apps to quietly look for other devices on your home Wi-Fi network. The update is meant to better protect people from tracking, unwanted monitoring, and certain phone-based scams.
Who is at risk
Android users who install lots of apps or who use their phones on home Wi-Fi networks are most at risk.
What to watch for
Watch for apps asking for network or nearby-device access that does not seem necessary for what the app does.
What to do
Update your Android phone when Android 17 becomes available and review app permissions to turn off access that you do not recognize or trust.