4 in 5 users removing private information from social media apps globally: Report

The Internet consumers are becoming more aware of their personal data and 82 per cent users have tried to remove private information from websites or social media channels, a new report said.

However, a third (37 per cent) of those surveyed said they still have no idea how to go about it, according to cybersecurity firm Kaspersky.

Consumers have shown that it is not just their private information that they are worried about, but their loved ones’ too.

For instance, the report revealed that 24 per cent of consumers claim that their personal data or information about their family has become publicly available without their consent.

“Understanding how to safely keep personal details on the internet and efficiently manage where your data is stored is a step towards ensuring a positive online presence, improving your personal reputation and opening up future opportunities,” Marina Titova, Head of Consumer Product Marketing at Kaspersky said in a statement.

A significant proportion of people apply additional measures when browsing the internet, to hide their information from cybercriminals (43 per cent), the websites they visit (41 per cent), and other individuals accessing the same device (37 per cent).

Additionally, some consumers remain wary about storing personal information on their devices. For instance, a fifth (21 per cent) also say they are concerned about personal data collected.

To make sure users personal information remains protected on the internet, Kaspersky advises consumers to keep a list of their online accounts so they have a full understanding of which services and websites may be storing personal information.

Meanwhile, one can start using “Privacy Checker” that helps consider setting their social media profiles to private. It will make it harder for third parties to find highly personal information.

The report included findings from a new consumer survey carried out in 23 countries.