In celebration of Data Privacy Day, Acronis, a global cybersecurity and data protection company, released the findings of its report“Data Privacy in 2025”, which explores consumer insights and practices regarding cyber protection. The survey covered over 2,480 consumers across eight countries, including Brazil, and provides a detailed analysis of global attitudes on the topic.
Key highlights in Brazil
Brazilian users stood out as the most aware and proactive regarding data protection compared to other nations. However, the country also faces significant challenges:
- Importance given to data privacy: Brazilians gave an average rating of 9.4 (on a scale of 0 to 10) for the importance of data protection—the highest among all surveyed countries and above the global average of 8.6.
- Concerns about data security: 9.3 is the global average rating for the level of concern about personal information security, while Brazil averaged 8.0.
- Protection practices exceed global average:
- 82% of Brazilians use strong passwords, compared to 68% globally.
- 34% check website security before providing personal information, while only 21% globally adopt this practice.
- 56% avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments, compared to a global average of 40%.
- High rates of data loss or theft: Despite stricter practices, one-third of Brazilians reported experiencing data loss or theft—higher than the global 25%. This negative experience may have driven greater awareness and caution.
Global context: growing concerns and significant gaps
Globally, the report revealed that 64% of respondents cited data breaches as their top privacy concern. Other highlights include:
- Backup practices: two-thirds of global consumers (66%) perform regular backups, but 9% still do not adopt this practice, and 4% are unaware of the concept of backups.
- Password vulnerabilities: While 68% use strong passwords, only 46% enable two-factor authentication (2FA), an essential step to prevent unauthorized access.
- Growing cybersecurity education: Learning about security through online videos is a trend, with 44% of global respondents using this resource.
- Delayed adoption of mobile security: Although 43% of respondents report using security apps for mobile devices, 35% are unfamiliar with these tools—even as smartphones become essential for modern digital lives.
- Attitudes versus actions: While over 60% rate data security as “very important,” only 40% frequently update their passwords, and nearly 70% continue to use public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities.
“At Acronis, we see how corporate practices and individual behaviors shape the landscape of data privacy and cybersecurity,” said Gaidar Magdanurov, President of Acronis. “We launched this survey around Data Privacy Day to better understand how home users think about data protection and the measures they’re taking to safeguard their information. While many people are rightly concerned about how organizations handle their data, this survey highlights that individuals also play a crucial role in protecting themselves.”
The report underscores the importance of protecting personal information, revealing consumer perceptions of digital risks and the need for greater education and accessible tools to strengthen cybersecurity. In its first year, it highlights the contrast between growing awareness of threats and the lack of proactive measures. On Data Privacy Day, Acronis advocates for fundamental practices such as regular backups, two-factor authentication (2FA), and using security applications.
“This inaugural consumer-focused survey by Acronis highlights a critical paradox in modern cybersecurity: people are increasingly aware of risks, but many still lack the tools or knowledge to protect themselves effectively,” said Gerald Beuchelt, CISO of Acronis. “Data breaches are a top concern worldwide, so there’s an urgent need for simpler, more accessible cybersecurity solutions combined with data backup, and more effective education to empower people to protect their digital lives. These efforts can help bridge the gap between awareness and action.”