Chinese state-linked hackers have increasingly targeted smartphones and mobile apps as weak points in U.S. cyberdefenses, gaining access to texts, calls and even the contacts of political figures.

Experts warn that while phones themselves are often secure, connected apps and user lapses—like using unapproved messaging apps or bypassing security protocols—create serious vulnerabilities.

The U.S. government is responding with efforts like a cybersecurity labeling system for smart devices, but concerns persist over the deep integration of Chinese tech in global infrastructure.

China and other nations will try to take advantage of such lapses, and national security officials must take steps to prevent them from recurring, says Michael Williams, associate professor of public administration and international affairs. “They all have access to a variety of secure communications platforms. We just can’t share things willy-nilly.”

Read more in the Associated Press article, “Chinese hackers and user lapses turn smartphones into a ‘mobile security crisis.’”