Report: 2 in 3 Adults’ Social Media Accounts Hacked

The majority of adults also reported taking steps to improve cybersecurity.

Almost two thirds of adults reported that their social media accounts have been hacked in a recent survey.

The study also found that the surprising prevalence of successful hacks is changing the way adults use social media.

Perhaps as a result of the hacks, 86 percent of survey respondents said they limit the information they post. Most people also reported changing their passwords and updating their security settings following hacks.

RELATED: A Ransomware Conversation with a Cybersecurity Expert

“The best way to protect yourself is knowing what information is available online and how to reduce access,” says Dan Konzen, college chair for the College of Information Systems and Technology at University of Phoenix Main Campus.

For the online survey, the University of Phoenix gathered 2,088 respondents over the age of 18, asking them a variety of questions about social media and cybersecurity, according to businesswire.com.

The survey also measured public perception of hacking vulnerabilities. Despite the majority of respondents being aware of hacks, 58 percent believe their data on social media platforms is somewhat or very secure.

The University of Phoenix, which recently created a Cybersecurity and Security Operations Institute, conducted the study in February.

Read Next: Here’s How 7 Institutions Dealt with Recent Ransomware Attacks

If you appreciated this article and want to receive more valuable industry content like this, click here to sign up for our FREE digital newsletters!

Leading in Turbulent Times: Effective Campus Public Safety Leadership for the 21st Century

This new webcast will discuss how campus public safety leaders can effectively incorporate Clery Act, Title IX, customer service, “helicopter” parents, emergency notification, town-gown relationships, brand management, Greek Life, student recruitment, faculty, and more into their roles and develop the necessary skills to successfully lead their departments. Register today to attend this free webcast!

Get Our Newsletters
Campus Safety Conference promo