.png)
With the digital landscape rapidly evolving in the Philippines, a staggering 97.5% of Filipino mobile phone users are calling for enhanced protection of their personal data, according to the 4th Annual Philippines Consumer Survey on Mobile App Security. The survey, conducted by AppDome in collaboration with the Open Worldwide Application Security Project, sheds light on the growing anxiety among Filipino consumers as security threats, fraud, and privacy breaches become more prevalent.
As e-wallet applications become increasingly popular, concerns over digital transactions have surged. Approximately 61.6% of Filipino consumers express heightened anxiety about using these cashless payment methods, which is nearly double the global average. The rise in these concerns reflects a growing awareness of cybersecurity risks as Filipinos embrace digital platforms for everything from banking to shopping.
Mobile app users in the Philippines are not just worried about convenience—they are prioritizing security. Nine out of ten respondents indicated that mobile protection is “equally or more important” than a device’s features. This strong preference for security signals a major shift in consumer expectations, placing pressure on mobile brands and app developers to fortify their security protocols.
Tom Tovar, CEO of AppDome, emphasized that Filipino consumers are recognizing the importance of cybersecurity more than ever. "Filipino consumers continue their march upward in recognizing the importance of this work," he noted. However, with advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), the risks are escalating. AI-based attacks are taking mobile app threats to a new level, further complicating the cybersecurity landscape.
This concern is echoed by 42.4% of survey participants who fear they may fall victim to mobile fraud. Social engineering scams have already affected one in three Filipinos, underscoring the need for stronger safeguards. In these scams, criminals often manipulate victims into revealing personal information or sending money through deceptive social media tactics. These vulnerabilities highlight the urgent need for both mobile brands and consumers to be proactive in securing their digital environments.
Filipino mobile users are also becoming increasingly discerning about which apps they choose to trust. A significant 98.7% of respondents report that they actively review a mobile application’s security claims before downloading it. Meanwhile, 76.3% of respondents said they would cease using mobile apps that do not provide adequate protection.
This growing demand for security presents a challenge for app developers and mobile brands. Consumers are no longer content with vague promises of security—they are holding companies accountable. With AI-driven cyberattacks on the rise, the pressure is mounting for mobile brands to evolve their cybersecurity measures and meet the expectations of their users.
At Directpath Global Technologies (DGT), we understand that staying ahead of these threats requires more than just reactive measures. As a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP), we offer tailored solutions to help businesses protect their mobile platforms and digital infrastructure. From Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) to Vulnerability Risk Management as a Service (VRMaaS) and Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) services, DGT provides comprehensive security strategies. Our advanced Artificial Intelligence Division ensures that your organization’s cybersecurity measures are not only responsive but predictive, allowing businesses to stay one step ahead of emerging threats.
As Filipino consumers demand stronger protection, it’s clear that mobile brands need to prioritize security to maintain trust and engagement. The findings from this survey, unveiled at the Rootcon 18 Hacking Conference, remind us that cybersecurity is no longer just an added feature—it’s a critical necessity for any mobile platform operating in today’s digital economy.
Source: Philstar
Comments