A recent Malwarebytes report found that online threats are affecting consumer behavior. Seventy percent of respondents have experienced some kind of cybersecurity threat such as online scams and viruses or malware, and roughly one tenth have experienced serious personal violations like stalkerware/spyware and ransomware.

According to the report, people readily give up a host of private information online by engaging in activities such as sharing their birthdate on social media (59%), interacting with strangers (54%) and taking quizzes that reveal personal info (45%).

Nearly 80% say they are "very" concerned about the risks of being online. Half feel confident in their ability to keep themselves safe. Financial and data breaches are people's top concerns. Despite high anxiety and the fact that 70% have experienced cybersecurity threats before, 35% use antivirus software. 

Sixty-nine percent of generative AI users and 63% of TikTok users are concerned their data might be misused or stolen.

Identity theft ranks as people's third biggest concern when it comes to online security, just behind fear of financial accounts and personal data being breached Sixty-four percent agree identity theft protection is one of the most important cybersecurity tools and 13% have it.

One in four respondents feel there's no point in using cybersecurity tools given the vast number of threats, and 41% are unsure how cybersecurity tools can help protect them. Three in four parents feel they need better tools and education to keep kids safe online.

Read the full report here.