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According to a report released Wednesday by the National Cyber Security Alliance, most broadband cable customers lack the most basic protections against the dangers of a persistent connection to the Internet, Internetnews.com reports.
The report also highlights a major perception gap on the issue of broadband security - while most consumers believe they have taken adequate steps to protect their computer, only 11 percent actually have safe and securely configured systems.
Experts blame this disconnect on a lack of education. While most consumers are aware of security threats such as viruses and hackers, few of them have identified specifically how to tackle these threats head-on and make certain that their personal systems are secure.
According to the report, only 33 percent of all computer users have a properly configured and secure firewall, meaning two out of every three broadband homes are not secure. Experts focus on this point as one of the most critical statistics in the report.
The entire study, entitled "Fast and Present Danger," as well as a list of security precautions broadband consumers can take to make their connections more secure, can be accessed online through the Alliance's Stay Safe Online campaign Web site.
The report also highlights a major perception gap on the issue of broadband security - while most consumers believe they have taken adequate steps to protect their computer, only 11 percent actually have safe and securely configured systems.
Experts blame this disconnect on a lack of education. While most consumers are aware of security threats such as viruses and hackers, few of them have identified specifically how to tackle these threats head-on and make certain that their personal systems are secure.
According to the report, only 33 percent of all computer users have a properly configured and secure firewall, meaning two out of every three broadband homes are not secure. Experts focus on this point as one of the most critical statistics in the report.
The entire study, entitled "Fast and Present Danger," as well as a list of security precautions broadband consumers can take to make their connections more secure, can be accessed online through the Alliance's Stay Safe Online campaign Web site.