As smartphones become the primary gateway to the internet for millions of people, cybersecurity experts are warning that users are failing to adopt security practices that match the growing volume of sensitive personal and financial information stored on their devices.
A new global survey by cybersecurity company Kaspersky found out that 58 percent of respondents now use smartphones as their main device for accessing the internet which is overtaking personal computers.
The trend is even more pronounced among Generation Z users aged between 18 and 28, with 67 percent relying primarily on smartphones for their online activities.
The findings reveal a widening gap between smartphone usage and cybersecurity preparedness, as mobile devices store banking details, passwords, work documents, personal photographs and health information.
According to the survey, despite recognising the importance of their smartphones, many users continue to neglect basic security measures.
While respondents expressed concerns about losing access to personal data, cybersecurity practices such as enabling multi-factor authentication, installing security software, updating operating systems and reviewing application permissions remain inconsistent.
Kaspersky said smartphones have evolved from communication devices into digital wallets and productivity hubs which makes them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to steal credentials, financial information and other sensitive data.
“People now trust smartphones with nearly every aspect of their digital lives, yet many still underestimate the security risks that come with that convenience,” it said.
The warning comes as cyber threats targeting mobile devices continue to increase globally. Kaspersky previously reported a 29 percent year-on-year increase in attacks against Android smartphone users during the first half of 2025, driven by malware, malicious applications and sophisticated phishing campaigns.
The latest survey also aligns with broader industry concerns over rising cybercrime. A separate Kaspersky study found out more than half of internet users worldwide experienced online fraud in the past year, while 45 percent encountered device attacks, hacked social media accounts or data breaches.
To reduce exposure to cyber threats, Kaspersky recommends that smartphone users keep operating systems and applications updated, install software only from trusted sources, enable biometric authentication and multi-factor authentication, regularly review application permissions, avoid clicking suspicious links and back up important data.
The company stated that as smartphones continue to replace traditional computers for work, banking and communication, strengthening mobile security should become a routine part of users’ digital habits rather than an afterthought.
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