LAS VEGAS – While 85% of consumers know their mobile devices are vulnerable to loss or hacking and 74% say keeping their devices secure is their responsibility, many don’t take action says a survey released today by CTIA-The Wireless Association.
“Consumers are more likely to be aware and protect themselves against a tangible threat, such as having a device stolen, than intangible threat such as malware or hacking,” says the research. The consumers whose devices were lost or stolen were more likely to use PINs or passwords than those who didn’t have their devices lost or stolen (69% versus 47%), but no more likely to take any other proactive actions, such as remote locking, tracking and/or erasing apps (45% versus 41%).
Despite their advanced features, only one in five Americans view smartphones as mini-computers, but more than half (53%) view cybersecurity the same way on mobile devices as they do on computers. Less than a third, however, (31%) installed an anti-virus program on their smartphone, compared to 91% on a laptop. Consumers are nearly as likely to run updates on their smartphones (66%) as on their laptops (69%).
The research reveals a disconnect on cybersecurity between consumers’ awareness and their actions, but they are now beginning to take steps to protect themselves and their data, says the report. A majority of consumers (66%) review their wireless bills for suspicious activity at least once a month and of those who use their mobile devices for online banking, more than half (56% for tablets and 55% for smartphones) use encryption or security software.
“Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility, from the consumer to the app creator to operating system to the device manufacturer to carriers and everyone in between. Through our Cybersecurity Working Group, our members are working hard and being vigilant to protect their customers, but it’s great to see that end users recognize their vital role in preventing cyber threats,” said Steve Largent, president and CEO of CTIA, in a release. “Yet there’s much to do, which is why CTIA and our members will continue to focus on consumer education so users know the wide variety of apps, tools and features available to help protect their information and their devices.”
The survey was conducted by Harris Interactive for the CTIA in November 2012 with more than 1,500 adults who own a cellphone or smartphone.
