The Internet of Things and a growing array of Internet-connected devices present an clear and present danger to users’ data, say nearly half of broadband customers in a new study.

“The rise of the software economy has given operators the ability to collect more information and data than ever before, including customer data, network quality and traffic data, and content asset-specific data,” says Glenn Hower, a senior analyst at research firm Parks Associates, which published the whitepaper study.

The paper finds a business opportunity to service providers who seek to assuage customers’ concerns, he adds.

“Consumers are aware and wary of the massive and ongoing data collection efforts online, so this whitepaper details strategies for operators to turn this market reality to their advantage and create a new level of engagement and trust with their customers.” 

Parks found:

  • Nearly 50% of U.S. broadband households are very concerned that someone will access their connected devices or data without permission
  • Nearly 75% want to keep tight control over their personal data.
  • 24% of consumers agree that they receive a lot in return for sharing access to their data, while the majority do not believe they receive a lot in return.
  • 23% of broadband consumers ranked a pay-TV provider as one of their three most trustworthy companies, and only 5% indicate a pay-TV provider as the most trustworthy company.

Get more details at:

http://www.parksassociates.com/whitepapers/cybersecurity-2017