Meanwhile, individuals use public Wi-Fi networks, install applications quickly, and reuse the same passwords. Due to this, smartphones and tablets are getting easier targets for cybercriminals because they are not as protected as standard computers.
However, these cyber threats can be mitigated by mobile device management that improves visibility in devices, restricts unsafe software downloads, and implements secure access controls.
In addition, encryption safeguards data when devices are lost, and constant monitoring reveals any unusual activity early, preventing unauthorized access to personal information as well as business systems.
The article describes significant mobile cyber threats expected in 2026 and explains how mobile device management can keep individuals and businesses secure.
1. Malware Attacks Target Sensitive Mobile Data
Fake apps, malicious links, and harmful downloads are now associated with mobile malware, and this makes it more difficult to detect infections. When it becomes active, it may steal passwords, monitor the activity, or gain access to the files stored on the device.
To individuals, this can lead to financial fraud or identity theft, whereas to businesses, it can reveal data of customers or internal systems. Mobile device management is useful to overcome this risk. It gives the ability to control what can be installed, prevents access to untrusted software sources, and keeps the devices updated with current operating systems.
Periodic updates of security eliminate vulnerabilities that are exploited by attackers. Moreover, device monitoring is able to identify abnormal behavior promptly, a factor that can prevent the expansion of threats.
These controls also reduce the risk of new and unknown attacks by stopping unapproved apps and preventing high-level access to hidden background activities on the device.
2. Phishing Messages Bypass User Attention
Individuals generally respond quickly to their phone messages, which means they may not examine links or sender details closely, making phishing attempts more likely to go unnoticed. Fraudsters use counterfeit notification delivery messages, bank messages, or other workplace messages to deceive users into providing their credentials.
After stealing login details, the attackers can access accounts without being detected. To overcome this, MDM mitigates this exposure using security and identity policies. For example, multi-factor authentication provides an added security layer, and therefore, accounts cannot be unlocked with stolen passwords.
The security settings can also limit the downloads that are risky and block the suspicious sites. In addition, when a device does not meet the requirements of the security standards, its access to sensitive platforms can be automatically restricted.
Users can also receive alerts about the behavior patterns that are considered risky, so that they become aware of phishing activity and prevent being exposed to the same actions in the long run.
3. Public Network Connections Increase Exposure
People often use Wi-Fi networks in an airport, hotel, cafe, and in such cases, hackers may tap into information or set up a fake access point to trick users into connecting. These network traps enable the criminals to steal the login sessions, traffic, or inject malicious content. Such attacks are often invisible, thus leaving the users unaware.
This is why MDM supports implementing safe connection policies no matter the location. The use of VPN can be turned on automatically when the device is not within the trusted network, which would then encrypt the traffic and block interception.
They can also prevent devices from connecting to unknown or unsecured Wi-Fi sources with network policies. This reduces dependence on user decisions and ensures security remains consistent across different environments.
In addition, connection logs also provide visibility into abnormal access attempts that allow security teams to investigate suspicious patterns more effectively.
4. Device Loss Leads to Immediate Data Risk
Phones and tablets are easy to lose, yet they often store saved logins, personal photos, work emails, and documents. If an unprotected device falls into the wrong hands, data can be accessed directly. Even strong passwords may not be enough without encryption and remote controls.
In such cases, MDM supports rapid response when devices go missing. Administrators or users can lock or wipe devices remotely, which protects data from unauthorized access. Encryption policies ensure stored information remains unreadable without proper authentication.
Location tracking features also help confirm device status quickly, reducing response delays. Automated alerts can trigger when devices go offline unexpectedly, allowing faster action before sensitive information becomes exposed.
