Norton LifeLock Research Identifies American Cyber Literacy Gap

More than half of Americans (53 percent) don’t know that their data and personal information is not protected even if they enable privacy settings on social media apps or websites, according to a survey commissioned by Symantec (NASDAQ: SYMC) brand Norton LifeLock. In fact, once information is shared online, it’s no longer private – and, it can fall into the wrong hands whether it’s compromised through a data breach, email scam or even someone familiar.

This is just one of several cyber myths Norton LifeLock identified in their recent online survey, conducted by The Harris Poll among more than 2,000 American adults. Regardless of age or gender, cyber myths coupled with poor cyber safety habits are likely hindering people’s ability to protect themselves from cyber crime.

Even Millennials and Gen-Z age groups, who are often seen as the most tech savvy generations, are less likely to know how to protect their digital and financial lives compared to older adults. More than one in four 18-to-34-year-olds (27 percent) believe it’s safe to send personal information through email if they have a strong password, compared to only six percent of seniors (65+) and 11 percent of 54-to-64-year-olds. Similarly, more than 4 in 10 of 18-34-year-olds (44 percent) believe or are unsure if it’s usually okay to ignore browsers and security warnings about questionable websites and proceed to the site, compared to only 17 percent of seniors.

“We find people have many misconceptions and unfounded beliefs about the safety of their data online,” said Paige Hanson, Chief of Identity Education, Symantec. “Cyber criminals are ruthless and determined to take advantage of consumers’ digital and financial well-being, so we hope to educate and help consumers protect themselves by sharing common myths and clarifying the facts about real online dangers.”

To help educate consumers and bring the story to life, Norton LifeLock enlisted myth busting expert, author and producer Kari Byron to take part in a five-part educational video series, helping close the cyber literacy gap and foster cyber safe behavior.

“I’m deeply passionate about digging into closely held beliefs and uncovering truths, which is why I’m excited to help Norton LifeLock with this fun, easy to understand video series,” said Byron. “You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone – and that includes your data, your privacy, or even your identity.”

What Are the Cyber Security Myths Dispelled by Norton LifeLock?:

Smart Phone Hygiene

• Cyber Myth: One in 8 Americans (13 percent) believe hackers cannot gain access to data and personal information on a locked mobile phone.
• Cyber Fact: Locking your phone is important, but not enough. Without touching your phone, hackers can gain access to your data and personal information in the cloud where it’s stored. They can also trick you into installing a malicious app that enables them to steal account information and even look at your email and texts. To help keep your phone protected, use a complex password, install security software, only use trusted Wi-Fi, and be careful about who you let use your phone.

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