The mainstreaming of security

Here is another metric on just how widespread Information Security issues are. The September 2005 issue of Consumer Reports features a cover story called "Stay Safe Online," which describes strategies for PC security and also rates programs to prevent viruses, spyware, and spam.

The article states that PC users face a 1 in 3 chance of suffering computer damage and that 8% of new computer purchases in 2003 and 2004 were a direct result of security problems.

My takeaways:

Great article that should be required reading for all computer users. For example, my octogenarian father just told me that he wants a PC to e-mail his grand children. I'll insist that he reads this article. I'm also advising him to get a Mac.

When a topic appears in Consumer Report, it is truly in the mainstream. Whether you're buying tires, dishwashers, or prescriptions, Consumers Report is a mainstay for objective and pragmatic advice. The same can now be said of PC security.

This is yet another example of just how esoteric and misunderstood Information Security is. People are smart enough to lock their doors and avoid dark alleys yet they still open anonymous e-mails, open suspicious Web links, and willingly volunteer private data.

I hope we continue to see more "how to secure your PC" articles in other periodicals like Reader's Digest, TV Guide, and The National Inquirer. Lord knows we need them.