After the WannaCry ransomware attack in mid-May, interest in cyber security across all industries has spiked. A survey conducted by Carbon Black included interviews with 5,000 people to evaluate the public’s perception of ransomware.

Impacting some 150 countries and 300,000 computers, the WannaCry ransomware attack was unprecedented in its scope and reach. The incident claimed healthcare, retail and financial victims. The Carbon Black survey aimed to identify people’s thoughts on WannaCry and potential reactions to future attacks.

Findings included:

1. 57 percent reported the WannaCry attack was their first exposure to how ransomware works.
2. Seven out of 10 reported trusted their healthcare providers to keep their data safe.
3. Still, 68 percent would consider leaving their healthcare provider if they were the victim of a ransomware attack.
4. Only 5 percent considered their medical records to be their most important type of data, with 42 percent choosing financial data and 41 percent opting for personal pictures and videos.
5. 12 percent would pay a ransom of $500 or more, and 59 percent would pay a ransom $100 or less.
6. People felt individual businesses are responsible for data security, with cyber security companies and software providers following in second and third.

The report concludes with four ways consumers can avoid ransomware.

1. Routinely update software.
2. Be aware of suspicious emails, pop-ups and links.
3. Back up data to restore data in the event of an attack.
4. Utilize antivirus software.