#United States #New York #Cybersecurity #Commvault

New Yorkers Demand Enhanced Data Security from Businesses

In a recent survey conducted by Commvault, a leader in unified resilience technology, startling insights came to light about the expectations of New Yorkers regarding data security in an era increasingly fraught with cyber threats.

Over 1,000 professionals, gig workers, and students in New York City were surveyed, and the results indicated a significant shift in consumer expectations. The survey revealed that New Yorkers now possess a heightened awareness of how businesses handle their sensitive information. This increasing vigilance is a response to a broader culture of surveillance and privacy breaches, whereby customers are more than ever reluctant to engage with businesses perceived as careless in safeguarding data. Around 85% of those surveyed expressed that they would reconsider their patronage of a company if it were to fall victim to a data breach. This statistic underscores the crucial connection between data security practices and consumer trust.

Interestingly, while New Yorkers appear proactive about their personal security, gaps in practices remain notable. A significant portion of respondents (56%) admitted to reusing passwords, creating vulnerabilities that could easily be exploited by cybercriminals. Moreover, invading public Wi-Fi networks is another area of concern, where not all users are adhering to best practices for safeguarding their information, leaving them susceptible to attacks.

The survey's findings emphasized that although many New Yorkers are adjusting their habits to enhance personal security—such as using unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication—challenges persist. Nearly a third avoid accessing sensitive information on unsecured networks, but the remainder often remains oblivious to the risks posed by common practices, potentially jeopardizing both their data and the integrity of their corporate environments.

Vidya Shankaran, Field CTO at Commvault, conveyed that consumers are now making informed decisions about where to shop and which banks to trust based on respective brands' commitment to data protection. Consequently, for businesses, safeguarding customer data has transformed from a strategic objective into an obligation necessary for retaining customer loyalty and confidence.

Jessica Barker, co-CEO of Cygenta, reinforced this sentiment, noting that the urgency of addressing data protection has never been greater amid the increasing prevalence of AI technologies. As the bar for consumer expectations rises, businesses must become adept at delivering resilient cybersecurity. Failure to maintain consumer trust can result in long-lasting damage, creating an environment where brands struggle to regain their lost reputation.

When over half of the respondents feel compelled to recommend businesses that visibly prioritize data security, companies must seize this opportunity to foster a relationship built on trust and accountability. Amid mounting pressures from consumers and the threat landscape, the shift towards prioritizing data resilience occupies a pivotal position for organizations hoping to thrive.

This call to action not only highlights the need for businesses to invest in robust security measures but also indicates the importance of transparent communication with their audience. By being proactive and transparent about their data security strategies and implementing more rigorous practices, businesses can not only enhance their resilience but also successfully navigate the complex landscape of consumer expectations. As New Yorkers become increasingly cognizant of their security environment, brands need to recognize that their actions—or lack thereof—can profoundly affect their reputation and competitiveness.

In summary, the findings from the Commvault survey demonstrate a critical juncture where consumer vigilance against data breaches may redefine how businesses operate concerning data protection. Organizations should heed these sentiments and adapt promptly to protect both their assets and consumer interests.