79% Indians Indicate an Increase in Online Security Concerns Compared to 5 Years Ago

McAfee revealed findings from its study, New Security Priorities in An Increasingly Connected World, showing that in today’s connected world we are putting more personal information into the digital realm.

With the increased volume of attacks and breaches, 79% of the Indians indicate that their concern about online security has increased compared to 5 years ago. The study also reveals a disparity in concerns as Indians do not view safeguarding their connected devices (25%) as equally important as safeguarding their identity (45%) and privacy (39%).

In the wake of growing risks of identity theft and fraud, 50% of consumers have signed up for an identity theft protection solution with 42% planning to start using it. Research indicates that the primary ways consumers rely on monitoring their identity include: checking online bank and credit card accounts for unauthorized charges (64%), checking social media for fraudulent posts (38%), and using credit monitoring services (31%).

“Even though consumers are increasingly worried about their security and privacy, we have also observed a disparity between their concern and action. In an ever-changing digital world fueled by volume, speed and complexity, consumers should take a proactive approach towards protecting their identities and data.” Venkat Krishnapur, Vice President, Engineering and Managing Director, McAfee.

When it comes to purchasing connected home devices, 39% Indians rank security as the most important factor when purchasing a connected home device. The concerns around personal data apply to kids too, as today’s children are practically glued to their phones and tablets, and often don’t inform their parents about who they are talking to, where they are going online and what they are posting. 71% of the parents would be interested in a tool that would make it easier to monitor their kids online.

Tips to stay safe online and protect what matters most:

• Do the little things. Cybercriminals don’t have to be great at what they do to steal your personal information. Minor tactics like changing default passwords right away, and using a unique password can go a long way to prevent your personal information from being stolen.
• Research before you buy. Look up products and the manufacturer before you buy. This simple step could save you from purchasing a product with a security vulnerability. If you find a manufacturer isn’t taking security seriously, then it’s best to avoid.
• Use identity theft protection. An identity theft protection service helps monitor use of your personally identifying information, alerts you of potential problems, and provides insurance against financial losses and recovery tools in the event of ID theft or fraud.
• Keep devices up to date. Updating device and application software when it becomes available from the manufacturer is an important step in personal security. Many new versions of software or operating systems contain specific security updates designed to protect the user.
• Review your account info.Regular reviews of online bank and credit account transactions can help you spot suspicious activities or purchases. If you see something suspicious report it to your financial institution and law enforcement.

Survey Methodology

In November 2017, McAfee LLC conducted a survey of 606 adults in India (aged 18-55). Respondents were individuals who use an internet-connected device on a daily basis and based in different cities across Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore.