Kyndryl, the leading global IT infrastructure services provider, has released new research shedding light on the rising threats of cyberattacks and scams targeting households in Ireland. The report provides a comprehensive look into the state of cybersecurity preparedness, habits, and vulnerabilities among individuals in the country, revealing a concerning lack of basic cybersecurity measures and awareness.
According to the findings, one in five respondents (20%) have personally experienced a cyberattack or online fraud in the past year, while an additional 15% reported such attacks within their households. This means that more than a third (36%) of Irish households have been impacted by cybercrime over the last 12 months. These statistics highlight the pervasive nature of cyber threats in today’s digital landscape.
Furthermore, the research uncovered that nearly half (48%) of respondents admit to using the same password across multiple websites, posing a significant security risk. Additionally, more than a quarter (26%) revealed that they engage in sensitive activities like banking and online shopping over public Wi-Fi, leaving themselves vulnerable to potential attacks.
In response to these alarming findings, Chris Davis, Managing Director of Kyndryl Ireland, emphasized the importance of raising public awareness and promoting proactive cybersecurity practices among individuals. Davis stressed that effective cybersecurity is not just about having the latest tools, but also about cultivating a culture of awareness and caution. He called for a collaborative effort among government, businesses, and educational institutions to create a more secure digital society, with Kyndryl committed to supporting this mission.
The research, conducted by 3Gem Research and Insights, builds upon Kyndryl’s previous organizational readiness findings, as outlined in the company’s inaugural Readiness Report. The study delves into consumer perceptions, concerns, and behaviors related to cybersecurity, painting a comprehensive picture of the current cybersecurity landscape in Ireland.
Among the key insights revealed in the report is the widespread concern among respondents regarding personal device hacking, online scams, and identity theft. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of participants expressed fears of their personal devices being hacked, with online scams (68%) and identity theft (58%) also ranking high on the list of concerns.
The research also highlighted that young adults, particularly those aged 25-34, are most at risk of falling victim to cyber fraud, with 29% experiencing direct targeting by cybercriminals. Poor password practices were found to be prevalent across all age groups, with almost half of respondents admitting to password reuse and reliance on weak memorized passwords.
Despite the known risks, a significant portion of respondents still engage in risky online behaviors, such as using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities and opting out of Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). The study revealed that consumers have little tolerance for data breaches, with the majority indicating that they would cease using services such as financial institutions or social media platforms in the event of a breach.
In terms of cybersecurity education, the public is divided on who should take the lead in educating the population about cybersecurity. While some believe that the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) or schools should bear primary responsibility, others feel that employers or universities should play a more significant role in promoting cybersecurity awareness.
Overall, the research underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity education, awareness, and proactive measures to protect individuals and households from the growing threats of cyberattacks and scams. Kyndryl’s call for a collaborative effort to create a more secure digital environment resonates with the broader goal of building a resilient and cyber-aware society in today’s interconnected world.