Majority of Employees Admit Personal Use of Work Devices
Seven out of ten employees use their work laptops for personal tasks, according to a new survey that highlights potential security risks and productivity impacts for businesses in Birmingham and beyond. The study, conducted by cybersecurity firm Kaspersky, found that 70% of respondents engage in non-work activities on their company-issued devices, including online shopping, streaming, and social media browsing.
Common Personal Activities Revealed
The survey of 2,000 UK employees detailed the most frequent personal uses: 45% shop online, 38% watch videos or stream content, and 32% check social media. Additionally, 28% admitted to accessing personal email, while 15% use work laptops for online banking. These activities often occur during work hours, with 42% of employees saying they do so to take a break from work tasks.
Security Risks and Company Policies
Kaspersky warned that mixing personal and work activities on the same device increases vulnerability to cyber threats. "When employees use work laptops for personal tasks, they may inadvertently expose company data to malware or phishing attacks," said a Kaspersky spokesperson. The survey also found that 34% of employees have never received cybersecurity training from their employer, and 22% are unaware of their company's policy on personal device usage.
Impact on Productivity and Data Protection
Beyond security, the trend raises questions about productivity. While some employees view personal browsing as a mental break, employers worry about time wasted. However, the survey noted that 58% of workers believe personal use does not affect their performance. With remote and hybrid working now common, the boundaries between work and personal life have blurred, making clear policies essential. Birmingham businesses, particularly those handling sensitive data, are urged to review their IT security protocols and provide regular training to mitigate risks.
