Computer users turning into DIY security experts
The UK is turning into a nation of unwilling DIY desktop-security installers, research has revealed.
ISPs? failure to provide desktop protection against internet threats has forced two-thirds of home PC users to take the DIY option, despite the majority lacking the necessary know-how to ensure they are not left vulnerable. Service providers are missing out on a major opportunity to increase revenues and enhance customer loyalty as 5 in 10 consumers would prefer a subscription-based blended security solution from their ISP.
These are the headline findings of independent research commissioned by Preventon, a managed internet security solutions provider. 423 consumers across the UK were questioned about their attitudes towards and experiences of internet security.
66.8% of consumers currently manage their own desktop protection, but most attempts at DIY security are leaving home PCs open to attack. Almost half (47.7%) have only installed one security software application – most commonly either an anti-virus package, a firewall or anti-spyware software ? and consequently their computer is vulnerable to a wide range of threats from viruses, Trojans and spyware to phishing and hacking attacks. Only 25.3% of PC owners have installed the standard security packages which came bundled with their PC. The research revealed that 68.6% of home PCs have suffered a virus infection.
Over 60% of consumers believe that ISPs should provide desktop defence against all forms of cyber-threats. 45.4% home PC users would be ready to pay a monthly subscription to ISPs for a blended-security solution. According to market-research agency MORI, 54% would pay up to £2 more a month for a better service.
The research highlighted a widespread lack of a basic understanding of industry terminology, the difference between types of threats and the most appropriate security solutions available. For example, 74.2% of those questioned rated ?identity theft? as a major threat, whereas only 22.5% saw ?phishing? as a significant security risk. This indicates that consumers don?t recognise the connection between the two ? that phishing is simply a method for stealing financial and personal information from unwitting consumers. Additionally, despite 89.3% claiming to be ?very concerned? about PC security, the majority of consumers failed to correctly identify which security applications can stop common threats such as worms, viruses or key-logging software.
?This research shows consumers are crying out for their ISPs to take action. Home PC users are simply overwhelmed by the vast range of disparate security tools on the market and they often don?t have the technical knowledge or time to ensure they have complete and comprehensive protection,? said Paul Goossens, CEO for Preventon.
?What is ultimately needed is a blended security solution that is as sophisticated as XYZ and as easy to use as ABC, and the most effective way this can be delivered to the home desktop is via an ISP subscription-service. One click and consumers can relax knowing their PC is armour-plated against online threats. The bottom line is that threats will continue to escalate and ISPs simply can?t afford to ignore customer demand from both an ethical and financial perspective.?
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