Many individuals believe that adhering to basic precautions, such as identifying phishing attempts and avoiding suspicious downloads, shields them from digital threats. However, cybercriminals can still infiltrate devices despite such vigilance.
The French cybersecurity body CERT-FR has released a document titled 'Threat Landscape Since 2025' (available as PDF) that highlights vulnerabilities present in every contemporary mobile device. In particular, Wi-Fi and cellular connections present substantial hazards.
Such Wi-Fi associated threats are not recent developments. As far back as 2024, officials in Australia advised against smartphone Wi-Fi usage, and the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency suggests disabling Wi-Fi during trips. What fresh insights are there? Details follow.
Per the CERT-FR analysis, those using public Wi-Fi face heightened exposure to man-in-the-middle (MITM) exploits. Malicious actors can insert themselves undetected between the user and the connection hub, enabling them to monitor and capture transmitted information. This occurs frequently on unprotected setups, such as in coffee shops or eateries.
The report points out the 'Evil Twin' technique, where perpetrators set up phony Wi-Fi hotspots mimicking authentic ones. Users linking to these fakes assume they are joining a trustworthy setup, yet they risk malware infection and full device compromise.
Reliance on legacy cellular standards, such as 2G, introduces serious vulnerabilities. These antiquated systems often lack security updates and safeguards, rendering them simpler to breach compared to advanced options like 5G.
To safeguard against infections, surveillance, data theft, and similar perils during journeys, the simplest step is to deactivate Wi-Fi and Bluetooth entirely. While full disconnection isn't feasible in today's connected world, experts advise limiting usage by toggling these off and activating them only briefly for essential tasks.
For Android users, disabling Wi-Fi connections involves accessing the notification shade and selecting the Wi-Fi toggle. iPhone owners can achieve the same via the control center, though fully powering it down in settings is preferable to prevent background features like AirDrop from operating.
Steer clear of public hotspots, which are frequently unencrypted and draw cybercriminals. Refrain from joining unfamiliar networks, regardless of their apparent legitimacy or safety. Additionally, disable automatic Wi-Fi joining for added protection.
CERT-FR further cautions against enabling NFC unless required, identifiable by the 'N' icon on the screen.
Activating airplane mode offers comprehensive shielding from wireless signals, though it prevents incoming notifications, calls, or internet access, posing a notable limitation.
Finally, installing a trusted antivirus application serves as a crucial final barrier should any infection occur unexpectedly.
This piece first appeared in our affiliate outlet PC-WELT, adapted and translated from its German version.
Laura, a dedicated video game enthusiast and admirer of films and series, pursued a degree in communication studies before joining PCMagazin and Connect Living. She now covers PC and tech subjects, holding a steady role at our German counterpart PC-WELT from May 2024 onward.