Mobile Security - Growing Threats in the Age of Smartphones

In today's era, smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, they are not just communication devices, but mobile digital centers that contain a huge amount of personal and sensitive information. This increased adoption brings with it a growing range of security threats targeting these devices and their data. Understanding these threats and how to protect ourselves from them is no longer an option, but an urgent necessity in a world where technology is accelerating and hacking methods are evolving.

What is Mobile Security?
Mobile security refers to the set of measures, policies, and tools designed to strengthen a device's defenses against cyber threats. The primary objective is to protect sensitive information stored on or accessed on mobile devices, and to ensure the privacy and integrity of the user's data. This concept includes protecting the device itself, the applications installed on it, and the networks it connects to. Without strong security measures, these devices can become vulnerable to malware, data leaks, and a wide range of other threats.

Mobile security can be divided into three main areas:

  • App security: Smartphone security starts with the apps installed on them. Apps require permissions to access certain information. Excessive access may allow it to collect more data than is necessary, which can lead to personal data leaks. It is essential to carefully review permissions and give them only what is necessary.

  • Network security: Connecting to public networks, such as  free Wi-Fi, is a significant risk. These networks are often insecure, making it easier for hackers to intercept communications and access data. The attackers also can install stalkerware trackers.

  • Device security: If the phone is stolen or lost, anyone who gets it can access all the information unless there are strong security measures in place. The use of strong passcodes, biometric authentication, and remote tracking settings are all essential to prevent unauthorized access.

Increasing Threats in the Age of Smartphones
Recent years have seen a marked increase in the complexity and number of threats targeting mobile devices. With each technological advancement, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. According to Kaspersky 's Securelist report for 2024, 33.3 million attacks involving malware, adware, or unwanted mobile software were prevented in 2024 alone. This number reflects the magnitude of the challenge. The most prominent threats are:

  • Data Leakage
     Data leakage is one of the most serious threats, and it is often caused by the mobile apps themselves. Some apps ask for extensive permissions such as accessing contacts, photos, or location without the necessity of their functionality. These applications can send personal data or even corporate data to remote servers, where they are exploited. To avoid this, users should carefully review app permissions.

  • Insecure Wi-Fi NetworksDespite the appeal  of free 
    Wi-Fi networks, they are often insecure and pose a significant risk.  Hackers can easily intercept data being sent and received, enabling them to access sensitive information such as passwords or banking details. It is advisable to avoid using  public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions.

  • Network spoofing: Network spoofing is a tactic used by attackers to create 
     fake Wi-Fi hotspots that appear to be legitimate in public. They call these networks generic and enticing. Once connected, attackers can intercept data or even require users to create an account with passwords, putting their accounts at risk.

  • Phishing Attacks: 
    Mobile devices are a prime target for phishing attacks. Mobile users are often the first to receive fraudulent emails or text messages that appear to be from trusted sources. The difficulty of validating links on small screens makes users more likely to click on malicious links that may lead to credential theft or malware installation. URLs should always be entered  manually and extreme caution should be exercised.

  • Spyware Spyware
    is malware that is installed on a device without the user's knowledge to collect information about it. This information can range from call and message logs to geolocations and even audio and video recordings. It is essential to use antivirus and malware software to detect and remove these programs.

  • Broken Cryptography
    : This threat occurs when application developers use weak encryption algorithms or apply strong encryption incorrectly. This could lead to known security vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit to compromise passwords or access protected data. The responsibility of ensuring strong encryption standards and proper application lies with the developers.

  • Improper Session Handling
     Many applications use   tokens to facilitate access to transactions. Session mishandling occurs when apps insecurely share these tokens with malicious parties, allowing them to impersonate legitimate users and gain access to their accounts. Session codes must be confidential and new codes must be generated for each access session.

Recent Statistics and Trends 2024-2025
Recent statistics confirm the continued increase and complexity of threats:

  • Rise in Android attacks: Kaspersky report revealed that attacks targeting Android smartphone users increased by 29% during the first half of 2025.

  • Adware and Dangerous Software:  Adware and RiskTool  Threat Tools continue to dominate the detected threat classifications. Families such as BrowserAd, HiddenAd, andAdlo  accounted for the largest number of new installation packages.

  • Banking Trojans: Banking Trojans ranked fourth in threats, after adware, Trojans, and risk tools. Kaspersky's report has discovered around 69,000 installation packages associated with these software in 2024. Banking attacks on smartphones also witnessed an unprecedented 196% increase during 2024, exceeding 1.24 million targeting of Android devices.

  • Fraudulent apps: The DoubleVerify report detected fraudulent apps across Google's mobile platform at a rate close to six times the average over the same period.

  • Pre-installed malware: Several pre-installed malicious applications such as Trojan.AndroidOS.Adinstall  and LinkDoor backdoor  have been detected on Android TV set-top boxes.

  • iOS threats: Even iOS, which is considered more secure, is not completely immune. The malicious  SparkCat SDK has been discovered to be implanted in apps on the App Store, aiming to steal the recovery phrases of crypto wallets.

How to protect your mobile device?
To protect our mobile devices and personal data, we must follow a set of good security practices:

  • Update your operating system and apps regularly: Security updates provide fixes for vulnerabilities. Always make sure your operating system and apps are up to date.

  • Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication: Use unique, complex passwords for your device and accounts. Enable MFA.

  • Only download apps from trusted sources: Download apps from official Google Play Store or Apple App Store and avoid unofficial stores.

  • Review app permissions: Before you install an app, review the permissions it requests. Be careful if you ask for permissions that don't fit their function.

  • Avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks: Limit the use of  public Wi-Fi networks, and avoid sensitive transactions on them. Use a VPN.

  • Beware of phishing emails: Don't click on suspicious links. Always check the identity of the sender and the credibility of the message.

  • Install reliable security software: Use reliable antivirus and anti-malware software.

  • Backup data regularly: Back up your important data.

  • Disable Bluetooth and location services when not in use: These services can be entry points for attackers.

  • Device encryption: Make sure your device is encrypted.

The smartphone era has revolutionized communications, but it has also been overshadowed by growing security threats. As we become increasingly dependent on these devices, their security has become critical. From data breaches to phishing attacks and spyware, attackers' tactics are constantly evolving, requiring us to be constantly vigilant and apply good security practices. By understanding threats and taking preventive action, we can enjoy the benefits of smartphones while keeping our information safe and private. Protecting our mobile devices is a shared responsibility, and every step towards enhancing security contributes to building a safer digital environment for all.