The U.K. comes in third after the U.S. as the most targeted country in the world for cyberattacks.In 2023, 87% of the U.K. adult population owned a smartphone, and many of themmay be vulnerable due to mobile hacking and theft becoming more appealing to criminalsdue to the increased storage of sensitive and valuable data. It is essential to understand what behavioural factors are contributing to cyber security risks in smartphone usage and prioritize as well as mitigate any risks that may negatively impact them.

This study explores the cybersecurity risks associated with smartphone usage in the U.K.,focusing on user behaviours and the evolving threat landscape. It begins by examining the widespread adoption of smartphones and the corresponding increase in cyber threats targeting these devices. The analysis covers various types of risks from a threat and vulnerability-based perspective, including malware, phishing, and data breaches,highlighting how user practices can exacerbate these vulnerabilities. The research also evaluates current government and industry measures to mitigate these threats, identifying strengths and areas needing improvement. A problem formulation outlines the core research questions driving this investigation while acknowledging the study’s limitations.The study relied on a survey to gather quantitative data to understand smartphone users’cybersecurity practices and behaviours. The findings reveal generational differences in user awareness and protective measures as well as influencing factors of security behaviours, underscoring the need for an advanced approach to enhancing smartphonecybersecurity and the use of security controls. This research underscores the critical nature of user behaviour in influencing cybersecurity outcomes and provides actionable recommendations for reducing risks for smartphone users in the U.K.