Consumers want high-performing security systems online

WINDSOR — According to a recent survey conducted by ING, nine in 10 adults agree that financial services companies should be doing more to protect customers’ personal and financial information.

Survey findings also indicated that 75% of respondents access financial accounts online, such as checking, savings, 401(k) or investment accounts. However, when it comes to their level of experience with protecting their personal and financial information online, just 5% of adults surveyed characterize themselves as being an expert.

While few consider themselves experts when it comes to protecting their information online, 93% agree that they are aware of the risks involved with managing online accounts.

Due to the high levels of awareness regarding online security threats, 93% of survey respondents report that they take online privacy and security very seriously and do everything they can to protect their own information.

Some of the security steps they take include keeping their anti-virus software updated (72%); only accessing their accounts from secure computers (60%); and only working with companies or financial institutions that they trust (56%). However, 84% expect companies to notify them of any suspicious activity and to utilize the most up-to-date security protocols and software (76%).

"Protecting customers’ personal information is one of ING’s highest priorities," Rob Leary, chief executive officer, ING Insurance U.S., said in a statement. "Our customers put a great deal of trust in us to manage their financial futures, and with that trust is great responsibility - a responsibility to secure their personal and financial information. As Americans become more and more comfortable with managing their finances online, it’s important that financial services companies continuously upgrade and evolve their technology capabilities around protecting customer data."

ING said it is responding to security concerns with the opening of its new global security operations center in Minneapolis. The culmination of five years of investment, the center is staffed with employees 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.