Americans are worried about computer viruses than H1N1

By siliconindia   |   Thursday, 01 July 2010, 23:24 IST   |    1 Comments
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Americans are worried about computer viruses than H1N1
Bangalore: Despite the concerns about computer viruses, most Americans are still unsure of how to protect their personal information online. Lot of them store most of their critical data and personal information online. These computer viruses carry increased threats to their daily lives. In fact, 49 percent of Americans with a personal computer would be more likely to safeguard themselves from a potential virus on their PC than a human virus, such as the H1N1 flu, reports a new research commissioned by internet security provider BitDefender and conducted by independent research firm Kelton Research. While Americans continue to place ever-increasing importance on their online safety, the survey found that only 36 percent are confident they would know the correct course of action if their computer was infected by a virus. Despite low awareness about computer security, most do know how to take advantage of basic antivirus software. Seventy four percent run a scan when they hear about a computer virus spreading, 66 percent check to make sure that their antivirus software is up to date, and 25 percent buy such software if they don't already have it installed. Research also found that while 65 percent of Americans are more cautious about the links and files they open after hearing about a new virus, many are still not taking appropriate steps to safeguard their online data. "While computer viruses have always posed a significant threat to consumers, this study confirms our view that Americans are now valuing their 'digital lives' more than ever before. Our lives revolve around computers and the Web, and in order to keep private information safe there needs to be more education around basic safety practices," said Catalin Cosoi, Senior Researcher at BitDefender.