Introduction Cyber criminals usually target computer systems, networks, and unsecured connections that relay sensitive information between service providers and users. However, a new trend involving the hacking mobile devices using sophisticated malware applications that intercept information such as passwords, username, and online-banking authentication data has emerged. Certain malicious applications are designed to steal people’s contact details. Common threats to mobile devices include invasion of domain name system (DNS) and Wi-Fi hotspots, Bluetooth hacking, malicious applications, and banking apps (Misra & Dubey, 2013). Cyber criminals trick individuals into downloading and installing malicious apps into their devices. In many cases, these apps are offered for free on certain websites and online marketplaces. Security measures are aimed at securing mobile applications, wireless connections, and eradicating vulnerabilities that facilitate attacks. Mobile devices are secured through the installation of security programs, use of passwords that are difficult to guess, and data encryption (Collett, 2014). Attacks Bluetooth Bluetooth applications contain vulnerabilities that allow cyber criminals to access mobile devices and steal information. They do not have an authentication feature to identify services that are unregistered and susceptible applications have virtual serial ports that attackers use to launch attacks and take control of devices (Collett, 2014). Many fraudsters connect to devices within their network range and send files that trick users into installing malicious applications (Soto, 2005). One of the most common malware programs common among hackers is referred to as Cabir. The worm searches and identifies devices that are discoverable through Bluetooth and sends itself to the device in the form of a file that can be installed. In case the user accepts and installs the program, the device becomes infected and the attacker can easily access its network and steal information, drain the battery, crash the device, or block signal transmission (Collett, 2014). Bluesnarfing refers to the act of gaining access to a mobile device in order to steal information such as the IMEI number, text messages, and other sensitive information (Soto, 2005). Bluesnarfing is not very common because the software that facilitates the attack is difficult to find or develop. On the other hand, it is impossible to attack a device that has its Bluetooth application turned off. Wi-Fi attacks Cyber criminals usually take advantage of mobile device users who connect to unencrypted Wi-Fi connections especially in public places. Such devices are highly vulnerable to man-in-the middle attacks that involve the use of sophisticated software. Hackers use tools that intercept any information such as passwords and usernames sent over network by users (Kumar & Xie, 2012). Experienced cyber criminals use sophisticated software to intercept communication between mobile devices and Wi-Fi access points, steal data, and use it to access users’ emails and online banking accounts (Misra & Dubey, 2013). These attacks are very lethal because it is difficult for owners of mob