While smartphone usage has changed significantly worldwide in recent years, the increased use has also led to worrying misconceptions about mobile security, a recent study found.

McAfee’s research shows that smartphones are increasingly replacing computers as the preferred device for accessing online content, especially among younger users. Yet the devices are often poorly secured due to user misconceptions.

"One of the most alarming aspects of the research is that nearly half of parents and even more children believe that a 'new' phone is more secure," Stephen Gates, Security Evangelist at Checkmarx, told Lifewire via email. "Just because it's new doesn't mean it's more secure."

The research shows that both parents and children consider their mobile device to be the most important device in their lives, with 59% of adults and 74% of teens placing it at the top of their list.