by Al Sacco

Lax Laptop Security Can Be Dangerous…and Expensive

News
Nov 12, 20071 min
Computers and PeripheralsData CenterLaptops

Survey suggests travelers need to do more to lock down their laptops.

Most travelers carry little of value on their laptops, but those who do carry valuable information store an average of $525,000 worth of sensitive data, according to a recent survey.

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The survey also found:

  • The average value of personal information on travelers’ laptop computers is $330,000.

  • 39 percent of respondents have experienced some form of computer malware, virus or theft.

  • Only 32 percent of respondents said the Wi-Fi connections they employ to access the Internet in hotels or conference centers are “somewhat” or “highly secure.”

  • The survey was conducted by iBahn, a provider of secure broadband services to hotels and conference centers. It included 491 participants, all laptop or PDA users who stay in a hotel at least one night a month.

    And not, apparently, sleeping all that well.