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Key Points:
- A new survey by Infobip reveals that over six-in-10 consumers feel their personal information is more at risk during the holiday season.
- Identity theft and data leaks are top security concerns, with 94% of those surveyed acknowledging the overall importance of cybersecurity.
- A total of 62.6% perceive the online environment as “increasingly unsafe” due to the growing sophistication of scammers.
- The survey also indicates a need for businesses to prioritize consumer education and bolster their cybersecurity measures, particularly during the holiday season.
A recent survey carried out by Infobip, a cloud communications firm, shows that a substantial number of consumers consider their personal information more exposed to risk during the holiday season. Specifically, over six-in-10 respondents believe they are more at risk, while 55% admit they take no action when a data leak happens.
Identity theft and data leaks remain the main security anxieties, with almost 94% of the respondents understanding the crucial role cybersecurity plays. More than half (55%) of the respondents find it challenging to secure their data online, reflecting significant concerns about digital security. Additionally, 74.4% agreed that it’s getting harder to protect their online data, and 62.6% view the online ecosystem as increasingly hazardous due to the growing sophistication of scammers.
Infobip’s chief business officer, Ivan Ostojić, noted, “These findings underscore the pressing need for businesses to prioritize consumer education and implement robust cybersecurity measures, especially during the holiday season.”
The survey also revealed other habits that heighten cybersecurity risks. Some 40% of respondents confessed to using free public Wi-Fi without proper measures, while 55.1% admitted to employing the same password on multiple platforms. However, it wasn’t all grim as 60.2% use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) as an added security measure.
Interestingly, only 22.8% of respondents said they’re uncomfortable sharing payment information for online retail. The comfort level for sharing such information increased significantly, at 63.1%, when purchasing from well-known retail websites.
Infobip concluded, “The data paints a vivid picture of heightened concerns among Americans. However, the statistics unveil a multifaceted challenge that transcends mere numbers. It’s a call to action for businesses to prioritize consumer education and fortify their cybersecurity measures – to not only deliver festive cheer but also ensure a secure and trustworthy environment for consumers.”
