A recent analysis of smartphone usage behavior shows that people using Android devices are less likely to take risks online. They also tend to rely more on digital safety tools compared to iPhone users. The results came from a cross-country study that included participants from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Researchers reviewed habits like password strength, app use, and shopping behavior. After controlling for age, the patterns remained tied to the phone model rather than user demographics.
Online Behavior Patterns Differ by Device
More iPhone users reported risky actions while browsing and shopping. Many said they bought items from unknown sellers based on low prices. A large number also sent private messages to sellers through social media to try and get discounts. Android users were less likely to take those steps.
When it came to safety habits, Android owners showed stronger awareness. More of them said they used unique passwords for different accounts. They were also more likely to install security software and block pop-ups or ads on mobile browsers.
These behaviors do not reflect the devices themselves. They reflect choices made by users while interacting with apps and websites.
Overconfidence in Phone Security Plays a Role
Some iPhone users may place too much trust in their phone’s built-in protections. That trust might reduce their motivation to use extra tools or pay attention to warning signs. The survey data showed that more iPhone users believed their phone would keep them safe by default.
Although Apple provides options like its password management tool, most users haven’t adopted them. Some might not be aware of the feature. Others may not feel the need to use it. Either way, the result is the same—fewer people are securing their accounts in basic ways.
Risky Shopping Habits Growing More Common
Shopping online has changed. Companies now use tactics that once seemed suspicious. These include asking users to send a message for a discount or requesting contact details in return for a coupon. Scammers use the same methods, which makes it harder to spot threats.
The study showed that iPhone users engage more often with these tactics. More of them gave out their phone number to get offers. More also followed QR codes to begin a purchase. Android users followed similar patterns, though not at the same rate.
Some of these behaviors started during the pandemic when QR codes became more common. That explains part of the trend, but not all of it. Giving out personal information or contacting unknown sellers is still a choice, not a requirement.
Use of Safety Tools Still Low Overall
Antivirus use remains low across all mobile users, but Android owners show slightly more adoption. The same applies to tools that block ads and trackers. iPhone users lagged behind on both. They also reported lower use of unique passwords, even though password managers are available. Android owners are ahead in that area, too.
Password reuse increases the chance of account theft. Even simple tools can lower that risk. Some are free and built into the phone. Others come from outside companies. There are options for every user, no matter the phone model.
Scam Rates Reflect These Trends
The number of users who said they had been scammed was higher among iPhone owners. Just over half reported falling for a fake offer, link, or message. The rate was slightly lower among Android users.
The difference in outcomes reflects the gap in habits. Users who avoid unknown sellers, use strong passwords, and install protection tools are less likely to get tricked.
Safety Depends on Behavior, Not the Brand
Phone security depends more on what people do than what device they carry. Tools and features can help, but they don’t replace caution. Clicking links, sharing personal information, and trusting unknown messages all increase risk. These decisions are made by the user, not the phone.
Everyone can take basic steps to avoid threats. Strong passwords, good judgment, and security tools still matter. The phone brand does not decide the outcome.
H/T: MalwareBytes
| Behavior | iPhone Users | Android Users |
|---|---|---|
| Bought from unknown source for best price | 47% | 40% |
| Sent DM on social media for discount | 41% | 33% |
| Shared phone number for promotional offer | 63% | 55% |
| Scanned QR code to start or finish purchase | 70% | 63% |
| Use security software | 21% | 29% |
| Use ad blockers | 19% | 27% |
| Use unique passwords for online accounts | 35% | 41% |
| Trust phone security to keep them safe | 55% | 50% |
Notes: This post was edited/created using GenAI tools.
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