A survey from Citrix and Censuswide has revealed employee negligence and indifference to IT policy is one of the most significant inhibitors to cloud security.

Polling around 2000 IT workers, the results showed respondents have a much more stringent approach to security at home than in work, while older younger employees are more likely to ignore company protocols when using devices and platforms.

“This research demonstrates that despite many individuals being well aware of basic precautions for handling their own personal data, too many are not so conscientious at work,” said Chris Mayers, Chief Security Architect at Citrix. “Employers have a responsibility to provide the tools and safeguards: employees need to use them.  Protecting a company’s digital assets is a two way street.”

The survey highlighted specifically that while 45% of workers are likely to use passwords to secure documents at home, this number drops to 35% at work. In terms of shredding and disposing of important documents, 68% would do this at home, whereas only 40% would do it in the work environment.

Despite security being consistently highlighted as a top concern for decision makers and the board, industry insiders have told BCN the company culture, as opposed to the technical challenges, should be more of a priority. The importance of security is underplayed by employees as they do not appreciate the threat of downloading unauthorized software or using public cloud platforms that are not approved by the IT department.

Our sources highlighted that board members in enterprise are focusing their attention on technology to address security challenges, when very little will change if the culture towards security is not altered, and education programmes are not launched.

The survey results also highlighted there is a much more relaxed approach to security from younger generations. Respondents aged over 55 are more likely to only use work devices with trusted company security software, 59%, compared to 47% of those aged between 25 and 34.