A recent BullGuard survey of 2,000 UK adults has exposed significant apprehensions about the security of personal data. The study found that almost 75% of respondents fear their personal details will be stolen each time they share bank details and email addresses with companies.
The survey highlighted widespread distrust of organizations, with two-thirds worrying their data may have been stolen without their knowledge. Approximately one in five individuals has already experienced personal data theft, and almost a third of them suffered financial losses as a result.
Of those affected by company hacks, 65% express ongoing concerns that their data could be used maliciously. BullGuard’s CEO, Paul Lipman, emphasized customer concerns, stating, “The way companies use data really is a huge concern for customers.”
The typical adult believes their personal details are held by an average of 40 businesses, fueled by high-profile data breaches like the Dixons Carphone hack. Identity fraud, theft of credit card details, and stolen bank details were identified as the most alarming consequences of company hacks.
The survey revealed that almost half of respondents have stopped using certain sites or services due to a lack of trust in the company’s ability to protect their personal data. Additionally, 48% believe businesses are not doing enough to safeguard customer data, while 45% think companies do not prioritize security.
An overwhelming 85% of respondents believe companies prioritize profits over customer security. Despite GDPR implementation, concerns about personal data security persist. One-fifth of those affected had to initiate contact with the company rather than being informed of the breach, and companies took an average of 11 days to respond.
Almost 80% of respondents believe companies often cover up data breaches. The survey also highlighted the impact on children, with 5% reporting their kids’ accounts had been hacked, and a quarter knowing someone who experienced personal data misuse or theft.
In conclusion, Paul Lipman stressed that companies need to accept their responsibilities in protecting customer data, stating, “The response from companies to data breaches simply is not good enough as far as customers are concerned. Despite the recent introduction of GDPR, people are still clearly concerned about their personal data being stolen and compromised.”
