Our medical information has become more top-of-mind and conversations around health more commonplace in the past year, especially as it relates to the COVID-19 vaccine. Chubb’s Fourth Annual Cyber Risk Survey examined how the evolving conversation about medical data and vaccines changed Americans’ cyber exposures, along with the comprehension of the risks, the steps they are taking to protect themselves and where any gaps still exist.
Covid-19 Vaccinations Study Results
According to the study, most individuals (63%) feel as though others should share their vaccination status in order to be able to participate in normal activities, but a similar majority (57%) are concerned with having to share their own vaccination status with others. While respondents expressed concern about privacy as it relates to vaccination status, only 24% shared that the same level of concern when it comes to other sources of medical data and records, with the notable exception of fitness tracking devices.
Cyber Security Risks Are Real Right Now
When it comes to cybersecurity overall, Americans’ actions have not yet caught up to the increasing cyber risks resulting from significant changes to work, activities and daily habits brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the survey.
More than two-thirds of Americans report that they have become somewhat or much more concerned about the potential for a cyber breach in the past year; however, a third of respondents have not taken any preventative actions to protect themselves or their data. These figures remain relatively unchanged from 2019, the report shows.
Insurance and Security
“Over the past year, COVID-19 has fundamentally reshaped every aspect of our lives, and one of the most understated, yet compelling, impacts of the pandemic has been the risks associated with our personal cyber habits,” said Fran O’Brien, division president of Chubb North America Personal Risk Services. “While we’re encouraged to know that Americans’ cyber security concerns are growing, today’s consumers rely heavily on technologies to aid them in managing their personal lives, and because of that reliance, they should implement important cyber security measures to help protect themselves and their families from rapidly-evolving cyber threats.”
Additionally, when it comes to cyber insurance, only 12% of Americans have purchased a personal cyber insurance policy in the past year. For the many without cyber insurance coverage, 34% of respondents would turn to friends and family for advice about a cyber insurance policy, 42% would ask an existing agent or broker and 70% would prefer to purchase their cyber insurance policy through their existing carrier. To learn more, read the full report here.
