Analyzing Cybersecurity Threats on Mobile Phones
Sara Alsahaim, Mohammed Maayah · STAP Journal of Security Risk Management · 2023
The widespread digital transformation has deeply integrated mobile devices into the fabric of daily life, making them indispensable tools for communication, education, healthcare, and financial transactions. However, the increasing reliance on mobile technology has also introduced a growing landscape of security threats and vulnerabilities. This research aims to systematically analyze the security risks associated with mobile phone usage, identify their underlying vulnerabilities, and propose effective countermeasures. With many users lacking adequate awareness of cybersecurity practices, mobile devices become susceptible to threats such as malware, phishing, unauthorized data access, and malicious applications. The study focuses on both individual and organizational perspectives, emphasizing that threats at the personal level can propagate to broader domains such as workplaces and educational environments. Utilizing a systematic literature review guided by the PRISMA methodology, relevant studies published between 2016 and 2022 were examined through databases like the Saudi Digital Library and Google Scholar. The research addresses three central questions: (1) what are the prevalent security threats on mobile phones? (2) What vulnerabilities contribute to these threats? (3) What countermeasures are most effective in mitigating them? The findings highlight the urgent need for user education and implementation of security tools, such as antivirus applications and safe downloading practices, to fortify mobile security and reduce potential risks.