A popular perception is that social networking is an activity enjoyed almost
exclusively by teens. But the NCSA social networking research study, in
association with
CA,
revealed that 48 per cent of social networking users are adults.
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The research found that, although 57 per cent of people who use social
networking sites admit to worrying about becoming a victim of cyber-crime, they
are still divulging information that may put them at risk.
Around 74 per cent have given out some sort of personal information, such as
their email address, name and birthday.
A further 83 per cent of are downloading unknown files from other people's
profiles potentially opening their PC to attack.
"Although the general community thinks that most social networking users are
teens, the CA/NCSA survey showed that the popularity of these sites is extending
beyond young early adopters to other segments of the population," said Ron
Texeria, executive director of NCSA.
"Those who frequent these sites should be aware that the data they share may
make them prey to online attacks.
"Giving out a social security number, paired with a birthday and name, could
provide enough for criminals to hack into financial records and compromise
users' personal information."
But users of social networking sites are also engaging in other risky
behaviour, such as downloading unknown files and responding to unsolicited
emails and instant messages, all of which may lead to ID theft, spyware, viruses
and other risks.
Of those who have access to a computer at work, 46 per cent engage in social
networking at the office, potentially making the workplace vulnerable to online
security threats.
The NCSA and the
National
Consumers League have established pointers to stay safe while on social
networking sites:
Do you agree?
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