Only 39% of Internet Users Protect Themselves Online

In an extensive survey conducted by the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI) and research company Ipsos, it is found that only 39% of internet users protect themselves online. The survey asked 23,376 Internet users in 24 countries on topics related to online security and privacy. Amongst the many answers, users were asked if they had heard of Edward Snowden, and the results show a clear indication on how his revelations affected internet users. Unsurprisingly, over two thirds (64%) of users are now more concerned with online privacy than they were a year ago, before the Snowden files were released.

But on the other side, it is worrying to note that even now, only 41% of all internet users feel the chance of their personal information being compromised is so small that it isn’t worth worrying about. So even with all the news stories and rising statistics of cyber crime and loss of personal data, not everyone is taking every precaution. Because so much of our data is online, whether you chose it to be or not, it is at risk of being stolen and falling into the wrong hands. One step to take, which is being taken more seriously, is the changing of passwords regularly. The study shows that 39% of users now switch their passwords, compared to that of a year ago, when the number was much smaller.

Aside from taking standard precautions with passwords and being careful when it comes to sharing personal information online, another step to take is by using a VPN. A Virtual Private Network essentially safeguards your internet connection, preventing any unwanted access on any device you use to connect to the internet. Le VPN will securely encrypt your connection, even if you are connecting to an unsecured public wifi network.

Sign up to Le VPN and make sure you’re protected whenever you use the internet, no mater where you are.