How do experts protect themselves, and how do lay people?
What are the top 5 security practices of experts and laypeople? A Google study on online security shows the differences.
Nowadays, anyone looking for tips on online security will find more than they can ever use in a matter of seconds. It is difficult for him to judge which advice is really useful. The Google study "...no one can hack my mind': Comparing Expert and Non-Expert Security Practices" shows how differently security experts and non-experts behave when it comes to taking appropriate precautions for their online security.
The top 5 safety practices from experts:
1. install software updates
2. use unique passwords
3. use two-factor authentication
4. use strong passwords
5. use a password manager
The top 5 safety practices of laypeople:
1. use antivirus software
2. use strong passwords
3. change passwords frequently
4. visit only known websites
5. do not share personal information
Although password management is important for both groups, they differ fundamentally in their use. While 73% of the experts use password managers for their accounts, only 24% of the laypeople do so. The use of software updates and antivirus software also differs: 35% of the experts, but only 2% of the laypeople, consider installing software updates to be one of the most important security precautions. 42% of the laypeople and only 7% of the experts use antivirus software to stay safe online.
More on the topic at the Google Online Security Blog.
