Acronis report reveals global concerns on data privacy 2025

Acronis has released its report "Data Privacy in 2025" highlighting global consumer concerns and practices related to cybersecurity and data protection.

The report sheds light on key issues such as the prevalence of data breaches, the adoption of security tools like two-factor authentication (2FA), and gaps in practices such as mobile security and data backups. According to the findings, 64% of global consumers identify data breaches as their primary privacy concern, underscoring the urgent need to bolster personal cyber defences.

Despite increased awareness, the survey indicates that 25% of respondents have already encountered data theft or loss. Furthermore, 12% remain uncertain about whether they have been breached, pointing to the often concealed nature of cyberattacks.

In terms of data backup practices, the study reveals that 66% of consumers regularly back up their data. However, there exists a critical gap, as 9% do not back up their data at all, and 4% do not understand what backup means.

Password protection remains an area of concern, with more than two-thirds (68%) employing strong, unique passwords but less than half (46%) using two-factor authentication, which is regarded as an essential defence against breaches.

Mobile security adoption is also lacking, with only 43% of respondents using mobile security applications, while 35% are unaware of these tools despite the growing significance of smartphones in daily life.

There is a disconnect between attitudes and actions, as over 60% of participants rate data security as "very important," yet only 40% frequently update their passwords, and nearly 70% continue to engage in sensitive activities on public Wi-Fi.

Consumer perceptions regarding security tools also present challenges, with 30% finding them too complex to use and 25% deterred by their high costs.

The survey highlights a generational divide, with younger consumers under 35 reporting more frequent breach incidents compared to older demographics aged 55–64. This may reflect riskier digital habits among younger individuals.

Promisingly, cyber education is on the rise, with 44% of respondents turning to online videos for learning about cybersecurity best practices.

Gaidar Magdanurov, President at Acronis, stated, "At Acronis, we've seen how both corporate practices and individual behaviors shape the landscape of data privacy and cyber protection. 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 organizations handle their data, this survey highlights that individuals also play a crucial role in protecting themselves."

The report encourages consumers to adopt fundamental practices such as regular data backups, enabling two-factor authentication, and utilising mobile security applications.

Gerald Beuchelt, CISO at Acronis, stated, "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. 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."

The survey, conducted with 2,480 consumers aged 18–64 globally, provides crucial insights into consumer perceptions of digital risks and emphasizes the need for better education and accessible security tools to enhance cybersecurity practices.