Phishing attacks are the most common security issue for smartphone users, according to a new study by Omdia.
The survey found that nearly a quarter (24%) of respondents have fallen victim to a mobile phishing attack. The second most common mobile threat was malware, which is usually delivered via social engineering.
The researchers note that phishing attacks reached all the smartphones assessed in the study, regardless of vendor.
“In Omdia's recent assessment of leading premium smartphones, Google's Pixel 9 Pro and Samsung's Galaxy S24 outperformed Apple's iPhone 16 Pro and other Android-based devices, including the OnePlus 12, Xiaomi 14, and Honor Magic 6 Pro,” the researchers write. “Anti-phishing protection proved to be a weak spot across all devices, as none successfully intercepted all phishing texts, calls and emails.”
Hollie Hennessy, Principal Analyst at Omdia, added that increased awareness is necessary to help users avoid falling for phishing attacks that bypass technical defenses.
“Despite the latest protections in place by some manufacturers, it is difficult to protect 100% against phishing attempts, highlighting the severity of the issue and potential impact to consumers,” Hennessy explained. “That said, smartphone manufacturers can (demonstrated by the more advanced phishing protection capabilities available) and should have a better baseline of phishing protection – such as voice call protection, and all Android devices making use of Google's Safe Browsing protections.
This needs to be paired with awareness activity from manufacturers and the wider industry to help consumers be vigilant and prepared.”
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Omdia has the story.