Kaspersky research on smartphone and AI security trends

Kaspersky research indicates a global shift toward smartphones as the primary device for internet access, with approximately 60% of respondents identifying them as their main gateway. This trend is most pronounced among Generation Z, where 67% of users aged 18–28 rely on mobile devices as their primary connection.

As smartphones increasingly store sensitive personal, professional, and financial data—including government IDs, corporate credentials, and AI chat histories—security practices have not kept pace with this concentration of information. Kaspersky expert Anton Kivva advised users to avoid storing all data solely on phones and to utilize dedicated security solutions.

Follow-up findings highlight specific vulnerabilities within Generation Z. Despite being the most digitally connected group, only 27% of Gen Z respondents use antivirus software on their mobile devices. This gap has resulted in significant impact, with 52% of Gen Z reporting they have already suffered attacks targeting their devices, personal data, or online accounts.

Furthermore, the study reveals a growing integration of artificial intelligence among Gen Z, with 47% using AI almost every day. A notable 27% of this demographic considers AI to be ‘a friend or a confidant.’ This emotional connection poses new risks, as only 42% of young users apply basic security rules.

Recent data from a study of 7,200 people across 18 countries expands on this trend in the Asia-Pacific region. Approximately 32% of Gen Z respondents in this region view AI as a friend, with Malaysia reaching 33%. In Vietnam, 42% of Gen Z respondents reported using AI to discuss personal matters, highlighting a risk of inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information.