A recent study conducted by Kaspersky, a global leader in cybersecurity and digital privacy, has revealed a significant increase in cyber threats targeting smartphones in the Middle East. Despite a relatively stable overall rate of attacks in the region during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the previous quarter, the number of hacking attempts and cyberattacks on smartphones surged by 43%, surpassing a total of 57 000 attacks.

In contrast, the study indicated that markets in Africa experienced a positive trend with a decrease in mobile device-targeted attacks, which fell by 17% to 94 270 incidents. Similarly, Turkey saw a decline of 16%, bringing the number of attacks down to 28 592.

Tatyana Shishkova, a senior security researcher at Kaspersky, stated that the reduction in attacks against mobile devices in parts of the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa is a positive sign reflecting increased awareness and preventive measures. However, she cautioned that the threat has not dissipated, as cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated and selective, relying more on advanced attacks supported by artificial intelligence and targeted strategies.

The study also highlighted the latest trends in cyber threats to smartphones, revealing a series of infection methods where attackers explore various pathways to gain access to their targets’ devices. As more services move to mobile platforms and reliance on smartphones grows in various aspects of life, mobile devices have become an attractive target for cybercriminals.