A recent study conducted by a global cybersecurity firm has revealed that the Middle East experienced a notable surge in cyber threats, with a reported increase of 43% in cyber attacks targeting smartphones.

The total number of such attacks surpassed 57,000 in the region during the first quarter of 2025, despite a relatively stable overall rate of attacks compared to the previous quarter.

In contrast, the study notes a positive trend in Africa, where cyber attacks aimed at mobile devices decreased by 17%, amounting to 94,270 incidents.

Similarly, Turkey witnessed a 16% decline in mobile-targeted attacks, bringing the total down to 28,592.

Tatiana Shishkova, a senior security researcher, highlighted that the reduction of mobile-targeted attacks in certain parts of the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa suggests increased awareness and preventive measures among users.

However, she cautioned that the cyber threat remains significant, as cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated and selective, with a growing reliance on advanced, AI-supported attacks.

The report emphasizes recent trends in cyber threats against smartphones, which indicate a cascading infection method.

Attackers are exploring a variety of entry points into targeted devices.

With a growing number of services transitioning to mobile platforms and increased reliance on smartphones in daily life, mobile devices have become an enticing target for cybercriminals.