The survey released yesterday found that 96% of professionals choose to send sensitive documents via e-mail, even though 68% of them understand that it is not a secure way to send such information or to ensure confidentiality. Of those surveyed, 12% said that they had received important company documents that were not meant for them.

The survey was conducted by UPAQ, a company specialising in securing electronic data delivery between organisations with offices in London and Zurich.

In personal transactions, 57% send personal bank details to another person via e-mail, yet 77% of respondents consider that e-mail is not necessarily a safe method to transport such information, as it can leave them open to fraudulent use of their details.

Melissa Zieger, Marketing Communications Manager of UPAQ Ltd said, “The survey shows that companies are continuing to e-mail sensitive documents and information without taking additional precautions to guarantee their secure transit. This is done despite the fact they are aware that the Internet is wide open to risks of hacking.”

Over 90% of people of those questioned in the survey said that they have made at least one purchase over the Internet using their credit card. Of those people, 61% said they do not think that this is completely safe. 87% are happier to give credit card details over the phone than the internet.

The survey also found that 64% use internet banking but only 49% of those believe that it is safe.

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