As mobile devices become central to everyday business operations, small business owners face an urgent cybersecurity dilemma. Mobile attacks are on the rise, with 85% of organizations experiencing the threat, according to the latest survey results from the Verizon 2025 Mobile Security Index (MSI). This situation is further exacerbated as employees use generative AI tools in their work, increasing both risk and vulnerability.
Chris Novak, Vice President of Global Cybersecurity Solutions at Verizon Business, stated emphatically: “This year’s Mobile Security Index is a clear wake-up call: mobile security is no longer a perimeter defense, but a battle waged within the hands of every employee.” Small and medium-sized businesses need to urgently rethink their security strategies, with 38% of organizations saying AI-based ransomware is becoming a more serious threat.
MSI’s surprising insight is that while 93% of organizations report that their employees use generative AI in their work, only 17% have specific security controls in place to counter AI-enabled attacks. This inconsistency leaves many businesses vulnerable. The risk is especially high for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). 54% believe they have more to lose from a cyber breach than larger companies.
Challenges remain for small and medium-sized businesses navigating this environment. According to MSI, 57% of SMBs feel under-resourced when dealing with cybersecurity, which makes it more difficult to respond to attacks compared to larger competitors. In particular, companies often train their employees more on mobile security and implement advanced measures such as multi-factor authentication at higher rates.
Despite these obstacles, taking proactive steps can mitigate the risks. Companies must ensure strong training for employees and establish clear policies regarding the use of AI. According to MSI, only 66% of large companies provide mobile security training to their employees, compared to 56% of small and medium-sized businesses. Raising awareness is important, especially considering that 39% of SMB employees clicked on a malicious link during a smishing test. These statistics demonstrate the urgent need for stronger vigilance.
Small businesses should also consider investing in advanced AI risk training. Only 39% of small businesses currently offer this capability, so there is plenty of room for improvement. By equipping employees with the right knowledge, small businesses can create a culture of cybersecurity awareness, reducing the likelihood of a breach due to human error.
However, adapting to the AI security environment presents real challenges. Many small business owners may find it difficult to allocate budget and resources to strengthen cybersecurity measures, especially when balancing other operating costs. As highlighted in the report, 63% of organizations have experienced significant downtime due to security incidents, further highlighting the need for reliable continuity solutions.
However, there is an opportunity for small businesses to turn these challenges into advantages. Investing in integrated security solutions can help businesses secure mobile devices while empowering employees to collaborate and innovate. “As threats evolve, so do our defenses,” Novak emphasizes. “A proactive, multi-layered approach to mobile security is no longer a best practice, but a business imperative.”
In the evolving world of cybersecurity, small and medium-sized businesses cannot underestimate the risks associated with using mobile and AI. A strategy that focuses on integrated security across networks and mobile platforms not only helps ensure business continuity, but also strengthens trust between customers and partners.
As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, it is important for small business owners to stay informed and proactive. If you want a comprehensive understanding of the current mobile threat landscape and practical steps to strengthen your defenses, you can learn more in the full Verizon 2025 Mobile Security Index. here.
By proactively addressing these issues, small and medium-sized businesses can navigate the complex terrain of mobile security and protect their operations from the ever-looming threat of cyberattacks.
