As read in The Adviser online – New research has revealed that 51 per cent of Australian digital users are at risk of cyber security breaches, putting their identity and money under threat.

The study from industry super fund-owned bank ME found that of the 2,000 smartphone or tablet owners surveyed, 51 per cent failed scenarios that ascertained how well they could combat cybercrime.

Thirty-seven per cent of respondents rarely changed their PINs or passwords, 23 per cent used public Wi-Fi networks to access internet banking, 14 per cent saved their payment details on online shopping checkout forms and 5 per cent stored a photo or text file containing credit card numbers on one of their devices.

Only half (51 per cent) of respondents said they thought it was their responsibility to protect themselves from cybercrime, with 40 per cent saying the responsibility lies with big business hosting digital services such as internet banking. The remainder thought cyber security was the responsibility of government.

ME general manager, cyber security, Samantha Macleod, said the results were concerning, particularly given the rate of digital adoption.

“In today’s digital world, it’s never been more important to harness cyber safety advice to ensure we’re fully protecting our identities and funds,” Ms Macleod said.

“Government and businesses have a role to play, but so do individual consumers.

“These results suggest that staying informed about the capabilities of technology, as well as the implications and risks of sharing certain information online, is the best way forward.”

Ms Macleod suggested that users take advantage of password management apps to boost security when online.

John can be contacted on 0749722081 or 0410433919. Or email him at jwhitten@ihl.net.au or net www.ihl.net.au. John Whitten is a credit presentative (CRN 399796) of BLASSA Pty Ltd (Australian Credit Licence No 391237).