Why Your Smartphone Is at Risk: 5 Common Myths About Mobile Security

Most of us take careful care of our smartphones, protecting them from scratches, drops, or other physical damage. But when it comes to digital security, many people ignore potential threats. Cybercriminals eagerly take advantage of this negligence, attacking our mobile devices with increasing cunning and activity. Below, we will look at the most common myths about smartphone security that many still believe to be true, even though they no longer reflect current realities.

Myth 1. Smartphones are not interesting targets for hackers

There was a time when cybercriminals primarily targeted computers, but today the situation is different: mobile devices have become a major target. Phishing attacks via SMS, messaging apps, and fake applications are increasingly being recorded, even on the latest smartphones. According to the Zimperium Global Mobile Threat Report 2024, 82% of all phishing sites now specifically target mobile devices.

The reason is simple – users neglect basic security measures: they don’t use VPNs, don’t verify Wi-Fi connections, and ignore password protection. Most people also store personal files directly on their devices instead of using cloud services, leaving photos, documents, and payment data vulnerable.

Myth 2. The operating system takes care of everything automatically

It’s a mistake to believe that default settings provide an adequate level of protection. No operating system guarantees automatic updates for all components without user involvement. For example, open permissions, delayed updates, or unverified apps can create loopholes for attackers. Periodically reviewing privacy settings and deleting suspicious files are basic digital security measures that should not be overlooked.

Myth 3. The brand or operating system guarantees security

There is a common belief that Apple products are the most secure option due to the brand’s tightly controlled, closed ecosystem. Meanwhile, Android, with its more open structure, allows apps to be downloaded from various sources, which increases potential risks. Nevertheless, no platform is completely secure: both iPhones and Android devices can suffer data breaches through vulnerable apps, phishing, or user negligence.

Myth 4. Mobile apps are safer than websites

Many people believe that using apps is safer than browsing websites in a browser. But this comes with hidden risks. Most free apps are filled with ads and collect large amounts of user data. Often, it's unclear who is behind the development – they could be inexperienced developers or deliberate fraudsters. Additionally, apps can request excessive permissions without your knowledge. That’s why it’s recommended to regularly review app permissions and delete those you haven’t used for a long time.

Myth 5. Losing your smartphone means losing everything

Even in cases of theft or loss, there are ways to minimize the damage. The first step is to use built-in device-tracking tools. For example, Apple offers “Find My iPhone” and Google provides “Find My Device.” You can remotely trigger an alarm, lock the device, or erase the data if recovery isn’t possible. The key is to act quickly. Pre-configuring such features and backing up your data to the cloud can help preserve important information.

Mobile security is just as important as antivirus protection on your PC or a lock on your front door. Don’t rely solely on your smartphone brand or default settings – real protection starts with awareness and responsible digital habits.