ISLAMABAD 8th August, 2024 (TDI): A recent survey conducted by Kaspersky has found that 47% of users worldwide believe that covering their device’s webcam ensures their privacy. However, this is not the case, as it only temporarily stops visual surveillance but does not disable built-in microphones or prevent images from being taken when users turn on their cameras.
The survey, conducted in June 2024, involved 10,000 users and aimed to understand their attitudes towards digital privacy, artificial intelligence, and online behavior. The results show that users can be contradictory in their digital habits and attitudes towards privacy. While 52% of respondents play online games and take tests, sharing their personal details with unverified sources, they also express concern about voice assistants collecting their personal information.
Despite concerns, 42% of users believe that using incognito mode makes them completely secure, which is not true. Incognito mode does not guarantee complete anonymity, as it only hides browsing history, cookies, and download history. Moreover, 32% of users are willing to click on unfamiliar links in messengers, potentially compromising their security.
Kaspersky’s web content analyst, Anna Larkina, emphasizes the importance of an informed approach to cybersecurity and digital privacy. She advises users to rely on verified sources, maintain critical thinking, and avoid unproven techniques and myths.
To stay safe online, Kaspersky experts recommend using strong and unique passwords, storing them in password managers, downloading applications only from official stores, and regularly checking installed programs on devices. Additionally, users should not follow suspicious links in instant messengers or social networks, even if sent by friends.
