Which components are most vulnerable to cyberattack?

• A. Mobile devices and the Internet of Things (IoT).
• B. Mainframe computers in banks.
• C. Desktop computers in corporate networks.
• D. Analog telephony networks.

Answer: (A)

The most vulnerable components are those at the network edge that are widespread, constantly connected, and often poorly secured. Mobile devices and IoT devices proliferate everywhere, run a huge variety of software from many vendors, and frequently lack robust patching, strong default credentials, or consistent security updates. They connect over wireless networks and the internet, exposing many entry points for malware, credential theft, and lateral movement, and attackers can exploit insecure protocols or services directly on these devices. In contrast, mainframe systems in banks are highly hardened and tightly controlled, desktops in corporate networks usually benefit from centralized security tooling and patching, and analog telephony networks, while legacy, aren’t as exposed to modern wide-scale cyberattacks. All of this makes mobile devices and IoT the most exposed to cyber threats.