Key Insights from the 2023 Annual Cybersecurity Attitudes and Behaviors Report

Here at DubLow Digital, we believe in empowering our clients with the knowledge they need to stay secure in an increasingly digital world. We live in an era dominated by digital connectivity, and the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. As technology advances, so do the threats lurking in the online space.

Often, our actions leave us most vulnerable to cyberattacks or online scams. Risky behaviors like using weak passwords, maintaining lax security policies, or assuming “This won’t happen to me” are common pitfalls. Human error is the cause of approximately 88% of data breaches, making it essential to address these behaviors.

The National Cybersecurity Alliance and CybSafe have been working to improve cybersecurity awareness. Each year, they publish a report on cybersecurity attitudes and behaviors to educate individuals and businesses on securing their digital environments more effectively.

This year’s study surveyed over 6,000 people across the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Germany, France, and New Zealand. The survey covered various aspects, including knowledge of cybersecurity risks, best practices, and the challenges people face. Here at DubLow Digital, we want to share some of the eye-opening insights from the report and how they apply to small businesses in Colorado and beyond.

We Are Online… A Lot

It’s no surprise that 93% of study participants are online daily. As we continue creating more logins, the number of sensitive accounts containing personal information that could be harmful if compromised also increases.

Nearly half (47%) of respondents have ten or more sensitive online accounts. This amplifies the risk, especially if people reuse the same password for multiple accounts.

(Source: The Annual Cybersecurity Attitudes and Behaviors Report 2023)

Online Security Makes People Frustrated

While most people (84%) acknowledge that online security is a priority, as many as 39% report feeling frustrated, and nearly the same number feel intimidated. It can sometimes feel like you can’t stay ahead of the hackers. Just over half of the participants thought digital security was within their control, leaving many who don’t share that confidence.

However, feeling overwhelmed is no reason to let your guard down. There are effective best practices that can help you safeguard your online accounts, including:

• Enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Using an email spam filter to catch phishing emails
• Adding a DNS filter to block malicious websites
• Using strong password best practices

People Need More Access to Cybersecurity Training

One of the most effective ways to reduce human errors in cybersecurity is through education. The survey revealed that only 26% of respondents had access to cybersecurity training.

When broken down by employment status, those who are not actively employed lack access the most. Even among the employed, more access and encouragement for training are needed. Only 53% report having access to cybersecurity awareness training and using it.

Here at DubLow Digital, we encourage Colorado businesses to invest in employee security awareness training, which can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches.

(Source: The Annual Cybersecurity Attitudes and Behaviors Report 2023)

Cybercrime Reporting Is Increasing

Over a quarter (27%) of survey participants said they had been a victim of cybercrime. The most commonly reported types of cybercrimes include:

• Phishing (47%)
• Online dating scams (27%)
• Identity theft (26%)

Millennials reported the most cybercrime incidents, while Baby Boomers and the Silent Generation reported the fewest.

(Source: The Annual Cybersecurity Attitudes and Behaviors Report 2023)

Adopting security best practices is crucial regardless of your generation, which we will discuss next.

Online Security Best Practices to Reduce Your Risk

1. Strong, Unique Passwords

• Start with the basics: create strong, unique passwords for each account.
• Use uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

• Enhance account security with multi-factor authentication.
• MFA adds an extra layer of protection, even if passwords are compromised.

1. Regular Software Updates

• Keep all software, including operating systems and mobile apps, up to date.

1. Beware of Phishing Attacks

• Exercise caution when clicking links or opening attachments, especially in emails from unknown sources.
• Verify the legitimacy of emails and websites by checking for subtle signs, like misspelled URLs or unfamiliar sender addresses.

1. Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks

• Connect only to secure and password-protected Wi-Fi networks.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions unless using a virtual private network (VPN).

1. Data Backup

• Regularly back up important data to an external device or a secure cloud service.

1. Use Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software

• Install reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices.
• Regularly scan your systems for potential threats.

1. Be Mindful of Social Media Settings

• Review and adjust privacy settings on social media platforms.
• Limit the amount of personal information visible to the public.

1. Secure Your Devices

• Lock your devices with strong passwords or biometric authentication.

1. Educate and Stay Informed

• Participate in cybersecurity awareness programs to foster a culture of vigilance and preparedness.

Schedule Cybersecurity Awareness Training Today

A little education can go a long way toward protecting your data. Here at DubLow Digital, our experts provide tailored security training to meet your needs, helping small businesses in Colorado strengthen their defenses against phishing, scams, and cyberattacks.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and build a more secure digital future.