Survey: Many consider their smart devices' security sufficient, even though it does not provide adequate protection

The use of security applications has slightly decreased since last year. In the Digital Life survey, 35% of respondents reported using them on their smart devices, down from 40% the previous year.

“Smart devices' built-in security does not cover everything. People may have too much trust in their devices' security because, particularly with Apple, the iOS operating system restricts the functionality of applications. In their smart devices, apps cannot access each other's data or system files. Additionally, the App Store is so strictly moderated that apps published in the official store can generally be trusted. However, this does not eliminate the possibility that a smart device user may accidentally end up on a phishing site through a web browser or a received message or inadvertently accept the installation of malware. Currently, the number of scams is on the rise,” says Jesse Kieksi, Head of Devices at DNA.

“Scammers can also overlay a new code on top of legitimate QR codes, leading to harmful sites. You may think you are paying a legitimate entity, but your credit card information ends up in the wrong hands. Detecting such scams requires separate digital security services,” Kieksi describes.

Digital security services are perceived as expensive

One reason for the decline in the popularity of separate digital security applications may be that about one-third (30%) of respondents consider digital security solutions too expensive. In 2022, only about one-fifth (23%) felt this way.

“With inflation and an uncertain global situation, consumers have become more cautious with their finances. Likely, some feel they cannot afford to pay for digital security applications. Approximately half of the respondents (47%) believe that their financial situation will either certainly or possibly affect their participation in the digitalizing society. Meanwhile, the number of various security threats continues to grow, and with the rise of artificial intelligence, scams are becoming increasingly convincing. This presents a challenging contradiction,” Kieksi notes.

DNA has sought to address the situation by launching DNA Huoleton subscriptions in the spring, which are new mobile and broadband subscriptions that include secure web browsing as a free additional service. Furthermore, by acquiring a separate and comprehensive digital security service, one can avoid greater financial losses, as scammers typically aim for financial gain. Generally, scammers either extort money or steal personal information to achieve monetary gains.

“Scammers can also take control of an unprotected device and use it for denial-of-service attacks. This is a form of business, as scammers then sell this attack capacity to others. The device owner may not even realize that their device has been compromised,” Kieksi states.

One can secure their smart device by acquiring a security application, such as DNA Digiturva, which is a service installed on the device to ensure that its use is as safe as possible. Additionally, users can protect their data and devices by subscribing to a plan that ensures they do not accidentally visit harmful sites.

The Digital Life survey (in Finnish only) conducted by DNA in collaboration with Nepa Insight was carried out through an online panel from March 24 to 28, 2025. Its aim is to find out how Finns use different digital services as well as their experience regarding digital inclusion. The annual survey received responses from 1,019 Finns aged 15 and older. The survey has been conducted since 2013.

Media enquiries:

Jesse Kieksi, Head of Devices, DNA Plc, +358 44 044 9484, jesse.kieksi@dna.fi

DNA Corporate Communications, tel. +358 44 044 8000, communications@dna.fi