Cyber Attacks and Online Fraud

A third of Americans have been victims of cyber attacks in the past year and those in the 18-24 age group are most likely to have been affected.

That’s the finding of a poll conducted for The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company which reveals that consumers have paid out up to $5,000 following the incident, mostly data recovery and software purchase; the majority paid less than $500.

“Consumers rely on smartphones, personal computers and tablets for virtually every aspect of their lives,” said Timothy Zeilman, vice president and counsel for HSB, part of Munich Re. “Their personal information is stored online and increasingly their home systems are connected to the Internet. The threat to cyber security for individuals and families is significant and growing.”

Cyber attacks and online fraud were shown by the poll to be the top concerns among consumers.