New research has revealed that the over 55 age group are the most attractive targets for cybercriminals. The research derived from interviewing more than 12,546 internet users conducted by leading anti-virus software company Kaspersky Lab and B2B, revealed that 40 per cent of respondents over 55 have shared financial details in the public domain, putting themselves at risk.
While the older demographic is more likely to install security software than any other demographic, it is less likely to protect mobile devices and more likely to share personal data in the public domain.
Around 86 per cent of respondents over 55 believed they are not a target for cybercriminals, when in fact, almost every internet user has been the target of cybercriminals through emails or by visiting compromised websites.
“On the one hand, it’s great to see that so many over-55s are using the internet to shop, bank and stay connected with loved ones. The report shows clearly that this generation is embracing a connected life, and all of the opportunities that come with it. On the other hand, however, it’s clear that the over-55s are not doing enough to protect themselves properly. Worryingly, they don’t even believe they are a target for cybercriminals, but they are putting themselves in danger time and again,” said Peter Brady, General Manager at Kaspersky Lab ANZ.
Take the Kaspersky cyber-savviness quiz and read more tips on how to protect yourself online at www.kaspersky.com.
Have you been the target of cybercrime? Do you feel you are cyber-savvy? Does your mobile phone have a pin code and a ‘find my phone’ service enabled?
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