Students need better data security education
As students head back to university, a survey by Intel Security reveals that, in the UK at least, half of them are failing to protect their phones, tablets and laptops from online threats.
The survey of more than 1,000 UK-based students carried out in conjunction with The National Student finds that despite a quarter of teenagers reporting that they are 'almost constantly' online, only 50 percent of students ensure they have the necessary security software installed to keep their devices and data safe.
In addition more than 90 percent log on to public Wi-Fi on their campuses and in bars and clubs, whether it's secure or not. On a positive note, 48 percent of students say they would attend university seminars around online security and how to best keep their data safe, if they were on offer.
"The fact that students are eager to learn about data security is a step in the right direction," Nick Viney, VP Consumer at Intel Security says. "Yet its concerning that many are still opening themselves up to risks unknowingly. When it comes to students' online safety, we all have a responsibility. Not only should parents be educating their children before they fly the nest, but universities too -- they should be doing all they can to ensure students understand the security policies at their university".
Intel Security recommends not only that students install antivirus software and keep it up to date but also that they back up their files regularly to a location away from the computer and that they practice 'safe surfing.' Viney adds, "There are also very simple measures that students can take to keep their work and their data safe. For example, students can make the most of special deals on security software, but make sure the links are legitimate before you click on them! And simple solutions, such as investing in security software like McAfee LiveSafe and not clicking on unknown email links, will help to keep work and personal data safe".
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