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| Source: Acronis Data Privacy in 2025 report. Asked about data privacy best practices, over 60% of respondents said they use strong, unique passwords for each account. |
Acronis, a global provider of cybersecurity and data protection, has unveiled the inaugural
Data Privacy in 2025: A survey to explore consumer views on cyber protection report.
In its first year, the survey uncovered a stark contrast between
growing awareness of cyberthreats and the lack of proactive security measures among
individuals worldwide.
The research has found that data breaches are a top privacy concern for 64% of consumers, emphasising the urgent need to strengthen personal cyberdefences. Other highlights include:
Data breach fears
Despite heightened awareness, 25% of respondents have experienced data theft or loss, and 12% remain unsure if they’ve been breached, exhibiting the hidden nature of many cyberattacks.
Solid backup practices
Two-thirds (66%) back up their data regularly, while 9% don’t back up their data at all. Four percent don’t know what 'backup' means.
Weak password protection
While more than two-thirds (68%) use strong, unique passwords, fewer than half (46%) employ two-factor authentication (2FA), a key defence against breaches.
Mobile security adoption lags
Although 43% of respondents report using mobile security apps, 35% are unfamiliar with these tools, even though smartphones have become essential to modern digital life.
Attitudes vs actions
While over 60% rate data security as 'very important', only 40% frequently update their passwords, and nearly 70% continue to use public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities.
Consumer frustrations
Nearly 30% of respondents find security tools too complex to use, and 25% cite high costs as a barrier to adoption.
Generational divide
Consumers under 35 report significantly more breach incidents than older demographics (aged 55–64), potentially reflecting riskier digital habits.
Cyber education on the rise
Encouragingly, video-based cybersecurity education is gaining traction, with 44% of respondents turning to online videos to learn about safety best practices.
“At Acronis, we’ve seen how both corporate practices and individual behaviours shape the landscape of data privacy and cyberprotection,” said Gaidar Magdanurov, President at Acronis.
“We launched this survey around Data Privacy Day to better understand how home users think about data protection and the steps they are taking to safeguard their information. While many people are rightly concerned about how organisations handle their data, this survey highlights that individuals also play a crucial role in protecting themselves.”
According to Acronis, the report serves as a global reminder of the importance of safeguarding personal information. The company has urged consumers to adopt foundational practices such as regular data backups, enabling 2FA, and using mobile security apps in conjunction with Data Privacy Day on January 28.
“This inaugural consumer-focused survey from Acronis highlights a critical paradox in modern cybersecurity - individuals are increasingly aware of the risks, yet still many lack the tools or knowledge to protect themselves effectively,” said Gerald Beuchelt, CISO at Acronis.
“Data breaches are a top concern globally so there is an urgent need for simpler, more accessible cybersecurity solutions paired with data backup, and stronger education to empower individuals to protect their digital lives. These efforts can help bridge the gap between awareness and action.”
Explore
Browse the survey findings and insights by visiting https://www.acronis.com/en-us/blog/posts/data-privacy-survey-consumers-worry-about-data-but-dont-do-enough-to-protect-it/
Get the report at https://www.acronis.com/en-us/resource-center/resource/data-privacy-in-2025-survey/
*The Acronis Data Privacy in 2025 survey gathered responses from 2,480 general-
population consumers aged 18–64 across the world.
