33.3 Million Cyber Attacks Targets Mobile Devices: How to Stay Secure

In a staggering revelation, cybersecurity experts at Kaspersky reported that 33.3 million malware, adware, and unwanted mobile software attacks were blocked in 2024. This translates to an alarming 2.8 million attempted attacks per month, underscoring the ever-evolving threat landscape that mobile users face worldwide.

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Adware Leads as the Most Widespread Mobile Threat

Adware emerged as the top mobile security threat, responsible for 35% of all detected malicious activities. Throughout the year, 1.1 million malicious and potentially unwanted installation packages were identified, with nearly 69,000 linked to mobile banking Trojans.

Despite a slight decline in unique malware installation packages compared to previous years, experts warn that this does not indicate an overall reduction in cyber threats. Instead, it suggests that cybercriminals are refining their attack strategies rather than abandoning them.

One of the most concerning developments of the year was the rise of modified messaging applications embedding the Triada Trojan family. In particular, third-party WhatsApp mods containing Triada.ga ranked third among all mobile threats detected. Other variations, such as Triada.fd, Triada.gs, Triada.gn, and Triada.gm, were also prominently featured in this year’s threat rankings.

Additionally, Fakemoney scam applications saw the highest activity levels in 2024, preying on users by promising fraudulent investment opportunities and deceptive payout schemes.

Related Read: Does Your iPhone Have a Virus? Learn How to Fix and Protect It

Banking Trojans: A Growing Menace

Banking Trojans were still a significant concern regarding cybersecurity. The Mamont banking Trojan family developed as one of the prominent threats of the year, highlighting the fourth most considerable risk in the overall mobile threats landscape.

Cybercriminals in Russia deployed a new way to leverage malware by targeting Android users, luring victims with a substantially discounted product. After the victim placed an order, the user was sent phishing links resembling tracking applications in which the banking malware was invisibly installed on the device. 

The banking Trojans leveraged permissions abuse by requesting permission for SMS (android.permission.RECEIVE_SMS) to intercept the authentication codes. They also relied on accessibility services to view screen content and subsequently created fake login overlays using TYPE_APPLICATION_OVERLAY to steal banking credentials and gain access to financial accounts.

Read More: Top 9 Best Practices to Strengthen Your Cybersecurity

Regional Threats and Security Recommendations

The report also identifies localized risks in cybersecurity, both in terms of threats in general and banking malware in particular, with Turkey and India topping the list.

• The Piom Trojan type used in the attacks was associated with the GodFather and BrowBot banker campaigns in Turkey.
• India witnessed the Rewardsteal banking Trojans and SmsThief malware that monitor SMS authentication messages.

Cybersecurity experts recommend safeguarding against these threats by:

• Keeping security software updated
• Downloading apps from official sources only
• Reviewing app permissions carefully before granting access
• Being suspicious of unsolicited messages with links or instructions to download

Mobile threats evolve even as users remain unprotected; hence, users should stay informed about these threats and work towards being security-conscious.

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How to Secure Your Mobile Devices from Cyber Threats

Your mobile device is not just your communication hub—it’s your gateway to work, entertainment, and personal finances. However, it’s also a prime target for malware, adware, and phishing attacks. 

Protecting your mobile from cyber threats is more crucial than ever, and AVP Total Security is here to keep your digital life secure.

Here’s how AVP Suite can safeguard your mobile:

• Comprehensive Malware Protection:
  AVP Total Security constantly scans and removes malware, trojans, and unwanted software potentially compromising the integrity of your device.
• Real-Time Phishing Defense:
  Moreover, the anti-phishing features block unsafe links and bogus alerts attempting to steal your banking credentials or scam your finances. 
• Ad Blocker & Anti-Tracking:
  The solution blocks annoying ads and tracking scripts, preserving your browsing activities’ privacy while avoiding all possible risks to your mobile device.
• VPN Integration for Secure Browsing:
  Therefore, with the built-in VPN, you can access the Internet securely—even on a public Wi-Fi connection; your connection is encrypted, and sensitive data is protected from prying eyes. 
• Identity Theft and Credit Card Protection:
  The suite offers excellent digital identity protection for concealing personal information—including credit card data—from identity fraud and pertinent data breaches.
• Cross-Platform Mobile Security:
  Whether you are using an iPhone or an Android device, AVP Suite delivers consistent, top-tier protection across all platforms.

By incorporating these features, AVP Total Security provides a holistic defense against modern cyber threats. Don’t let hackers compromise your privacy—take control of your mobile security today.

Key Takeaway

Cyber warfare is rampant today, and mobile devices are the primary targets for these attacks. With AVP Total Security, the solution offers complete protection for your data and secures your mobile device from malware, phishing, and more. 

AVP Suite offers Robust and adaptable protection to cope with ever-evolving threats. Feel safe and secure with 24/7 protection against anything and everything in your digital world. 

Click here to upgrade to AVP Total Security and secure your mobile today!