Mobile devices have become an essential part of our daily lives. However, this increased reliance on mobile technology has also led to a surge in mobile and SMS attacks, posing a significant threat to individuals and organisations alike.
According to recent statistics, the number of mobile malware attacks has increased by over 50% in the past year, with smishing attacks (SMS phishing) being one of the most common types of mobile threats.
Christopher Ofugha, a cybersecurity expert from Safenet Society, said, “Mobile devices are increasingly becoming a prime target for cybercriminals. The convenience and ubiquity of mobile devices make them an attractive target for attackers looking to steal sensitive information or compromise personal data.”
Smishing attacks involve sending fake SMS messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a bank or a popular online service. These messages often contain links or attachments that, when clicked or opened, can install malware on the victim’s device or steal sensitive information.
According to a report by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), smishing attacks have resulted in billions of dollars in losses for consumers and businesses in the United States alone.
Mobile malware can have devastating consequences for individuals and organisations.
Ofugha warned, “Mobile malware can lead to unauthorised access to sensitive information, financial losses, and even identity theft. In addition, mobile malware can compromise the security of entire networks, putting businesses and organisations at risk.”
Mobile threats are escalating rapidly. According to Kaspersky, mobile malware attacks jumped by 53% in 2022 compared to the previous year.
This trend continues, with Android smartphone users facing a 29% increase in attacks in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, and a 48% surge compared to the second half of 2024.
Notable threats detected in 2025 include SparkCat, SparkKitty, and Triada, a Trojan that modifies messaging apps. Some apps with adult content were found to launch DDoS attacks, while a VPN app intercepted login codes via SMS.
With experts predicting a 20% rise in smishing attacks in the next year, it’s clear that mobile security is a growing concern. Individuals and organisations must take proactive steps to protect their mobile devices and sensitive information from these increasing threats.
Protecting against mobile and SMS attacks requires a proactive approach. To safeguard their mobile devices and data, individuals and organisations must take deliberate steps.
According to Christopher, a key step is to use reputable security software and ensure it is always up to date.
Additionally, it’s crucial to exercise caution when receiving unsolicited SMS messages or emails, particularly those with links or attachments, as these can be potential entry points for malware.
Using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication can also significantly enhance the security of sensitive information.
Furthermore, regularly updating mobile operating systems and apps is vital to ensure that the latest security patches are installed, providing an additional layer of protection against mobile threats.
The growing threat of mobile and SMS attacks is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. As mobile devices become increasingly integral to our daily lives, individuals and organisations need to prioritise mobile security measures.
By understanding the threat and taking steps to protect against it, we can mitigate the risks and create a safer digital environment for all.
Funminiyi B. Philips is a cybersecurity enthusiast. He can be reached on LinkedIn.
