Android Mobile Adware Surges in Second Half of 2025

Malwarebytes threat research reveals spike in adware and malicious malware families Triada and MobiDash heading into the holiday season

SANTA CLARA, Calif. , Dec. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Malwarebytes, a global leader in online protection, shared new research showcasing a dramatic uptick in threats targeting Android users as the mobile channel becomes a prime vector for financial scams and aggressive adware campaigns. With people now 39% more likely to click links on their phones than laptops, cybercriminals continue to exploit this shift in consumer habits, especially during the commerce heavy holiday season.

Read the research:

"The holiday season may have just kicked off, but cybercriminals have been laying the groundwork for months for successful Android malware campaigns," said Shahak Shalev, Global Head of Scam and AI Research, Malwarebytes. "In the second half of 2025, we observed a clear escalation in mobile threats. Adware volumes nearly doubled, driven by aggressive families like MobiDash, while PUPs surged , suggesting attackers are experimenting with new delivery mechanisms. I urge everyone to stay vigilant over the holidays and not be tempted to click on ads, pop-ups or shop via social media. If an offer is too good to be true, it usually is."

Key research findings

Malwarebytes Mobile Security updates

As mobile threats surge, Malwarebytes has made big investments in its mobile security solution to stay ahead of new threats and scams targeting mobile users. Highlights include new product features and enhancements, and additional validation from leading independent testers.

Malwarebytes Malwarebytes is reimagining security to safeguard devices, data and people, no matter their location, lifestyle or means. A global leader in online protection, its suite of award-winning cybersecurity, privacy and identity solutions empower millions of people worldwide to enjoy their digital lives, free from threats and scams. Built and beloved by experts, Malwarebytes pairs a world-class team of threat researchers with proprietary AI-powered processes to supercharge and refine detections, providing unmatched protection against both known and unknown threats. Living up to its legacy, Malwarebytes continues to offer free tools that have long served as a first line of defense against malware and scams with new options for identity protection and data removal.

Malwarebytes, powerful digital protection that's always by your side.

Malwarebytes Media : Ashley Stewart Director of Public and Analyst Relations press@malwarebytes.com

View original content to download multimedia:

The articles, information, and content displayed on this webpage may include materials prepared and provided by third parties. Such third-party content is offered for informational purposes only and is not endorsed, reviewed, or verified by Morningstar.

Morningstar makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or reliability of any third-party content displayed on this site. The views and opinions expressed in third-party content are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Morningstar, its affiliates, or employees.

Morningstar is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or delays in this content, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Users are advised to exercise their own judgment and seek independent financial advice before making any decisions based on such content. The third-party providers of this content are not affiliated with Morningstar, and their inclusion on this site does not imply any form of partnership, agency, or endorsement.