G Data Warns Consumers of the Significant Security Risks Posed by Social Networks

Durham, NC (I-Newswire) August 16, 2011 - G Data Software, one of the world’s first antivirus providers, warns consumers to be wary while using social networks as criminals are leveraging their behavior to entice people to click on links to virus-infested sites and thus infect their PCs with malware. According to the G Data 2011 Security Survey, nearly one in five consumers click on links passed through social networks, regardless of who they come from. The survey also highlights differences between user demographics. Older users are considerably more cautious in their use of portals than younger ones and women are somewhat more security-conscious than men.

"Cyber-criminals are increasingly using social networks to distribute malware," explains Eddy Willems, G Data Security Evangelist. "One of the most popular scams is the deliberate distribution of malicious code via links posted on portals. A link to an alleged scandalous video leads directly to a website infected with malicious code. Users cannot easily recognize these dangerous links as the addresses are significantly abbreviated. Using security solutions with a built-in http scan adds additional security."

One in five users clicks on links from anyone
Nearly one in five of those surveyed takes what G Data considers a high risk on social networks by clicking on URLs in portals from friends and strangers. These users are running the risk of falling into the traps of online criminals. In contrast, 46 percent categorically refuse to click on any links. The third group of respondents only clicked on links shared by members of their own network.

Silver Surfers are slightly ahead in social networks
In general, younger members use social platforms for longer and more intensively than silver surfers. Despite this, older users are less likely to click on links. In contrast, younger respondents are more prepared to take risks in social networks. As age decreases, so does the proportion of users who are differentiating between links from known and unknown users.

Women are more security-conscious than men
The G Data 2011 Security Survey also highlighted some slight differences in the way men and women use Facebook and other social networking sites. Male users take more risks when using social networks and are less likely to notice whether a link comes from a known or unknown user. However, women appear to have a slightly higher awareness of the risks involved with social networking, and prefer to click on URLs from members of their own network.

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About G Data Software, Inc.
Founded in 1985, G Data Software is one of the world’s first antivirus providers, with offices and distribution in more than 90 countries worldwide. The company provides proven enterprise and consumer security solutions, including antivirus, anti-spyware, anti-phishing, and firewall software. In addition to products, G Data Software runs a world-class malware research lab, Security Labs, which monitors and analyzes current computing threats on a global basis, partnering with organizations, governments and nonprofits to fulfil a variety of needs. The company has recently established operations in North America, located in the heart of Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. For more information on G Data Software, its products, or Security Labs, visit www.gdata-software.com

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