As intense as it all sounds, there's likely no cause for panic. The researchers point out that the relatively closed nature of cellular networks compared to the Internet will help carriers combat ill-intended tactics. They also note that they've seen no evidence of these types of hacks actually being plotted yet.

Rather, they're looking at the ripe environment as an opportunity to put up protection before it becomes too late.

"Users want to avoid the spam crisis that has inundated email," Cross says.