GoKawiilWhen you see a malicious email or link, you may already have your next steps in mind, like deleting it right away, reporting it as spam and even blocking the sender. However, CNET's latest survey found that some US adults don't take any action at all.
It's easy to comfortably assume that antivirus software and other cybersecurity tools will protect you from malware, but scammers are still finding workarounds to steal our data. In fact, even though many devices have built-in antivirus protection, over half (54%) of US adults with personal laptops have encountered potential malware within the past year.
Your first step when you notice a possible malware attempt is the most important. Clicking a link out of curiosity can lead to a virus, identity theft or even fraud. However, ignoring it isn't the best course of action either.
We can help you navigate these instances. Here are CNET's latest survey findings and information for how far CNET's experts say antivirus software can really protect you from phishing headaches and hassles.
Key findings 78% of US adults currently own a personal laptop. More than half of the laptop brands US adults own are HP ( 32% ) and Apple ( 26% ) brands.
of US adults currently own a personal laptop. More than half of the laptop brands US adults own are HP ( ) and Apple ( ) brands. Over half ( 54% ) of laptop owners have encountered potential malware on their personal laptop over the past 12 months.
) of laptop owners have encountered potential malware on their personal laptop over the past 12 months. 88% who reported seeing potential malware in the past 12 months took action against it, while 12% did nothing.
who reported seeing potential malware in the past 12 months took action against it, while did nothing. 68% of laptop owners who took action either deleted the file or closed the suspicious website or pop-up.
of laptop owners who took action either deleted the file or closed the suspicious website or pop-up. 37% of laptop owners have received phishing emails in the past 12 months.
Laptop owners have encountered phishing emails the most
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