Increased Online Shopping Activity During the Holidays May Put Consumers at Risk for Internet Threats

The following was noted in Increased Online Shopping Activity During the Holidays May Put Consumers at Risk for Internet Threats:

A newly published survey conducted by Harris Interactive and commissioned by Check Point Software Technologies, makers of the popular ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite, reveals that most online adults (84 percent) do not feel safer when computing online this year compared to last year. Yet holiday shopping continues to proliferate, with the number of shopping transactions nearly tripling during the holidays.

The survey shows that most online adults (91 percent) shop online, and many (39 percent) do so at least once a month. Online shoppers, on average, complete about 2 shopping transactions in a typical month. However, this figure nearly triples to about 6 shopping transactions during the holidays.

During a year when cases of identity theft and security breaches topped the headlines, the survey also revealed that online adults may not be taking the necessary steps to secure their personal computer (PC) against Internet threats. About three in four online adults (74 percent) have not installed a hardware firewall, and about half (53 percent) have neglected to install a software firewall. Less than one in four (22%) have installed a security software suite to protect against spyware and viruses.

When making purchases online, 97 percent of online shoppers use their credit card to complete transactions, however, 44 percent do not always check for security symbols when making purchases.

“As we begin the holiday shopping season this year, we want consumers to understand that Internet security is no longer only about protecting your PC, it’s about protecting you. Even with all the hype surrounding ID theft and hacking attacks, the online population is still largely unaware of steps to take in order to protect themselves,” said Laura Yecies, general manager of Check Point’s ZoneAlarm consumer division. “Defending oneself online takes a multi-pronged approach, with Internet security software being the first line of defense. It’s also critical that consumers arm themselves with the knowledge to combat the social engineering tactics such as fraud and e-mail phishing.”

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