Financial data loss is the most dangerous threat

In a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive, it was revealed that the exploitation of financial information was considered the biggest threat by many companies.

There are many computer threats that can cause headaches for users. Among them, the most damaging are those which threaten the safety of our valuable information or, even worse, its confidentiality. And of all the personal data we store online, financial information is what gives us greatest cause for concern. 60% of users from Russia, the US and Europe surveyed by Harris Interactive in February and March 2012 said the exploitation of financial information was their biggest fear.

Information about passwords for online services comes a close second ‚ 58% of users are concerned about the loss or theft of this data by cybercriminals. Next, in descending order, come personal email and documents, address book contacts and different kinds of multimedia files. Despite their obvious concern about data safety, however, a considerable number of users store information on poorly protected mobile devices. In particular, 15% of respondents use their tablet to make credit card purchases online, work with electronic payment systems or to perform other financial operations: 12% perform the same activities using their mobile phone. About one third of all users (31%) entrust their personal information to their home computer or laptop.

What do users do to protect sensitive data? According to the results of the Harris Interactive survey, just under half of respondents (46%) choose to back up all their devices. 30% of users resort to encrypting valuable information, while another 32% protect documents with a password. These measures are obviously not sufficient in themselves, but coupled with high-quality antivirus software they can ensure a decent level of protection. In this instance, the best option is to use a single security package with a full set of capabilities. This protects against modern Internet threats and offers tools for data backup, file encryption and safe password storage. This all helps to protect important information against unauthorised access, theft or loss.

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