64% of global consumers cite data breaches as a top privacy concern
Acronis data privacy survey finds
Acronis has released the findings of its inaugural report, Data Privacy in 2025: A Survey to Explore Consumer Views on Cyber Protection. The report, unveiled on January 28, 2025, aligns with Data Privacy Day and provides an in-depth look at global consumer attitudes toward data protection and cybersecurity. The study sheds light on many critical issues, from concerns about data breaches to the tools consumers use to protect their personal information.
The survey, conducted across multiple countries, revealed that data breaches are the top concern for consumers worldwide. 64% of respondents highlighted data breaches as their biggest privacy worry, signalling a growing anxiety over the frequency and severity of cyberattacks.
Key findings from the Acronis Data Privacy in 2025 survey include:
Data Breach Fears Dominate Concerns: Despite increased awareness of digital security, 25% of respondents reported having experienced data theft or loss, while 12% were unsure whether they had been breached, indicating that many cyberattacks go unnoticed by the affected individuals.
Backup Practices: A Positive Trend: Two-thirds of respondents (66%) confirmed that they regularly back up their data, which is vital in protecting against data loss. However, 9% of respondents admitted to never backing up their data, and surprisingly, 4% claimed not to understand what backing up data entails.
Weak Password Protection: Although 68% of individuals use strong, unique passwords, only 46% utilise two-factor authentication (2FA), a critical layer of protection against breaches. This highlights a significant gap in consumers’ cybersecurity practices.
Mobile Security Lagging: While 43% of survey participants use mobile security apps, a concerning 35% were unaware of such tools. This is especially troubling as smartphones are pivotal in personal and professional digital activities.
A Disconnect Between Attitudes and Actions: While more than 60% of consumers consider data security “very important,” just 40% reported frequently updating their passwords. Furthermore, nearly 70% still use public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities, a risky practice that leaves users vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Consumer Frustrations: A significant number of respondents (30%) expressed frustration with security tools, citing their complexity as a barrier to adoption. Additionally, 25% noted that the high cost of cybersecurity tools is a significant deterrent.
Generational Divide in Breach Incidents: Younger consumers (under 35) were likelier to report data breaches than older demographics (55-64), suggesting that younger users may have riskier digital habits or engage more frequently in online activities that expose them to greater risk.
The Rise of Cyber Education: On a more positive note, the survey revealed that online video content is increasingly used to learn about cybersecurity, with 44% of respondents turning to videos to understand safety practices better.
Commenting on the findings, Gaidar Magdanurov, President of Acronis, said: “At Acronis, we recognise that corporate practices and individual behaviours play crucial roles in the current landscape of data privacy and cyber protection. By releasing this survey on Data Privacy Day, we aimed to understand better how consumers perceive data protection and the steps they take to safeguard their information. This data is a powerful reminder that, while organisations must continue prioritising data protection, individuals also have a key role in defending themselves against cyber threats.”
Gerald Beuchelt, Acronis’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), said, “This inaugural survey highlights a troubling paradox in cybersecurity. Individuals are increasingly aware of the risks, yet many still lack the necessary tools and knowledge to protect themselves effectively. With data breaches emerging as a top global concern, it’s clear that there is an urgent need for simpler, more accessible cybersecurity solutions, combined with enhanced education to empower individuals to protect their digital lives.”
The Acronis Data Privacy in 2025 Survey gathered responses from 2,480 consumers aged 18–64 across eight countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Japan, and Brazil. The report provides valuable insight into the growing need for better security tools and education to help consumers strengthen their cybersecurity practices in an increasingly digital world.
Last Updated on 1 month by News Desk 2
