IDShield Reveals the Top Digital Mistakes that Lead to Identity Theft

The cybersecurity leader uncovered new data on the top digital behaviors that leave consumers vulnerable to cyberattacks

In recognizing the effort of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, identity protection provider IDShield unveils new data on consumer digital behaviors that increase the risk for cyberattacks. Of those surveyed, more than 40 percent feel conducting life and business online is getting more dangerous. Although 82 percent claim to have familiarity with what cyber thieves are capable of, many of their digital behaviors make them prime targets for identity theft. Here are a few of the top mistakes:

• Lazy and overused passwords: Almost half (48%) use the same password for multiple accounts; 44% are storing their passwords insecurely; and 42% currently share their passwords with someone else.
• Oversharing on social media:  91% of those surveyed have a social media account, and of that audience, 84% have at least one identifying element of their identity (e.g., an email, full name, age, birthday, location, school affiliation) included in their social media profile.
• Accepting emails from unknown senders: 90% of respondents are wary of opening links from a sender they are not familiar with. However, fewer people are as concerned when it is coming from someone they know. 
• Trusting their data to dangerous apps and websites: More than 30% have experienced a data breach, with over 72% unaware of when it occurred. Meanwhile, 46% of respondents allow apps to access their location data.
• Using unsecured Wi-Fi: 55% have used a public Wi-Fi network to access their banking and financial accounts.

“Whether at home or in the office, our digital behaviors are more important than ever,” said Jeff Bell, CEO, IDShield. “With the constant threat of data breaches and cybercrime, it’s important for people to understand what actions make them most vulnerable and to take steps to protect their identity. IDShield can help people do that.”

About IDShield

IDShield is one of North America’s leading cybersecurity companies, providing individuals and families with identity theft protection and monitoring services, online reputation management, consultation services with licensed private investigators and fully-managed restoration services. IDShield is part of PPLSI. For more information, visit pplsi.com.