With the advances and extensive application of electromagnetic (EM) waves in electronic and communication devices. EM pollution has been identified as a threat to human health whereby EM interference also affects the proper functioning of electronic devices. Therefore, the fabrication of novel microwave absorbing materials (MAMs) has become important to mitigate EM pollution and protect humans as well as other nearby electronic devices. The use of sole cobalt as MAM has gained significant attention due to its EM properties and suitable saturation magnetization. However, large density, eddy current loss, and poor corrosion resistance are some of the factors that hinder its practical application as an ideal MAMs. In this paper, recent advances towards overcoming these challenges have been reviewed. In particular, ways of regulating the morphology and optimizing the EM properties of cobalt-based MAM. Furthermore, fabrication of high-performance lightweight absorbers with hierarchical structures and formation of cobalt-based hybrid MAM with other lossy materials are discussed. Several factors affecting the microwave absorption performance of cobalt-based MAM are further discussed. Finally, the present limitations as well as prospects are put forward to give a new insight into the design of improved cobalt-based MAM. © 2020 Elsevier Ltd and Techna Group S.r.l.