Asia Pacific (APAC) consumers are among the world’s most active users of digital technologies, but they are also increasingly aware of the cybersecurity risks that come with a mobile-first lifestyle, according to a new study from Kaspersky.
Findings from Kaspersky’s latest B2C Pulse Survey reveal that APAC consumers exceed the global average in key digital activities, including online shopping (80% vs. 71%), digital finance (72% vs. 70%), digital entertainment (70% vs. 62%), and digital communication (68% vs. 61%).
The survey, unveiled during Kaspersky’s APAC Cyber Security Weekend in Guangzhou, China, also found that consumers in the region are more concerned about digital technology being used for criminal activities compared to global respondents (35% versus 32%).
Thailand recorded the highest level of concern at 39%, followed by Malaysia (38%), Indonesia (35%), China (34%), India (32%), and Vietnam (31%).
As digital adoption accelerates, Kaspersky reported blocking nearly 30,000 mobile cyberattacks targeting consumers across APAC during the first quarter of 2026. India and Indonesia recorded the highest number of incidents, while several countries posted significant year-on-year increases in mobile threats.
Taiwan experienced the sharpest increase at 373%, followed by Sri Lanka (132%), Thailand (127%), Bangladesh (108%), China (69%), and the Philippines (28%).
According to Kaspersky, the growth of mobile banking, digital payments, e-commerce, and online services has made smartphones a prime target for cybercriminals. The company warned that many users still do not apply the same level of security protection to mobile devices as they do to personal computers.
To address this challenge, Kaspersky is promoting embedded mobile security technologies that integrate protection directly into applications rather than relying solely on standalone security software. Its Mobile Security SDK enables banks, retailers, government agencies, and app developers to embed features such as anti-phishing protection, malware detection, secure connectivity, device reputation checks, and detection of remote access tools within their mobile apps.
The cybersecurity company also highlighted Kaspersky Who Calls SDK, which helps identify suspicious calls, and Safe Web, a DNS-based security solution designed to block malicious and phishing websites before users access them.
“With 77% of APAC already online and digital wallets accounting for roughly 70% of online payments, cybersecurity is no longer optional,” said Choon Hong Chee, Head of Consumer Channel for APAC at Kaspersky.
The findings underscore the growing need for built-in cybersecurity measures as APAC continues to lead global digital transformation and mobile adoption.
