Research by RSA has revealed that identity theft tops the
list of the public's concerns on cybersecurity.With the exception only of the World Trade Center attack, fear
of personal data being stolen, has done more than anything else to
highlight concerns about cyber security.
Despite this, the survey of 1,000 people shows that 40% have
failed to take any action.
Of those who implemented security measures, 39% installed
anti-virus software, 23% reviewed their security policies of
organisations holding personal data, and 21 had changed where they
stored personal information.
"It is clear that identity theft is top-of-mind with consumers
and we believe that protecting identity theft is everybody's
responsibility," said John Worrall, RSA security vice
president.
The survey revealed that many consumers are altering their
buying patterns despite these concerns.
Of those that have made changes, 35% are more cautious about giving
retailers personal information, 19% now refuse to give out credit
card details online, and 18% have stopped making on-line purchases.