2016 Norton Cyber Security Insights Report
Learn how bad security habits can expose you to online crime
Hackers are honing their skills while consumers remain complacent
Globally, 35 percent of people have at least one unprotected device, leaving themselves vulnerable to ransomware, malicious websites, zero days and phishing attacks. Consumers are aware of the need to protect their personal information online, but they are not motivated to stay safe. In fact, cybercriminals launched over one million web attacks against Internet users every day in 2015. (Source: ISTR)
Fixation on constant connectivity leaves consumers exposed
Wi-Fi access has permeated our lives. 87 percent of consumers have in-home Wi-Fi and access outside the home is plentiful through coffee shops, airports and libraries. Unfortunately, many of these public Wi-Fi networks are unprotected, leaving consumers vulnerable to hackers.
Learn how to protect your information on public Wi-Fi networks
Consumers admit the risk is real
Within the last year, 689 million people in 21 countries experienced cybercrime. It has become so prevalent that many people equally fear online and real-world risks. More people believe it has become harder to stay safe online in the past five years (63 percent) than in the “real” world (52 percent).”
See the personal impact of cybercrime where you live
Global comparisons
We surveyed 20,907 adult device users in 21 countries to learn about their online behaviors, attitudes and security habits. See how they fared alongside the dangers and financial cost of cybercrime.
- The United States is the most susceptible developed country for cyberattacks, where 39 percent of Americans personally experienced cybercrime within the past year, compared to 31 percent of people globally.
- The Netherlands has the lowest rate of cybercrime experienced in the last year (14 percent), compared to Indonesia with the highest rate (59 percent).
- More than any other country, parents in the United States (64 percent) believe their kids are more likely to be bullied online than on a playground, compared to Germany, where just 31 percent of parents share the same concern.
- If given the option, majority of those surveyed across all countries would rather reset their smartphone settings than have their browser history made public.
Bad habits are hard to break
By adopting a few basic behaviors, we can make big strides in mitigating cybercrime risk:
- Protect your accounts with strong, unique passwords that use a combination of at least 10 upper and lowercase letters, symbols and numbers.
- Think twice before clicking on random links, or opening unsolicited messages and attachments, particularly from people you don’t know.
- Don’t access any personal information or social media accounts on unprotected Wi-Fi networks.
- Use security software on your devices to help protect you against the latest threats.
