OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- Positive Networks, a leading provider of security products and services, announced the results of its new survey “IT Security & Authentication: Key Concerns in 2008”. In January 2008, over 300 Information Technology Professionals from across the country were interviewed online on issues relating to security, authentication, and other concerns which network security professionals should be prepared to face in 2008. It became clear that IT professionals are concerned that they do not have the appropriate security practices in place. This concern seems well founded in that 20% admitted to a breach that included some loss of sensitive data or allowed access to restricted resources. 70% suggested that their current practices for authentication were not secure.

The “IT Security & Authentication: Key Concerns in 2008” survey reveals that while IT professionals face a growing list of priorities, security ranks as a top concern. The worry about security blurred the lines between protecting company assets and personal assets with results demonstrating even greater worry related to identity theft and privacy concerns. 93% of respondents indicated serious concerns about company security relating to data protection and network security. Only 3% indicated that IT security was not a priority for 2008.

In particular, IT professionals noted that authenticating and restricting access to appropriate users is a priority with 84% rating it as a serious or high level concern. Furthermore, for nearly half of respondents (48%), their current focus on IT security is higher than in previous years.

Nearly 1 in 5 respondents indicated that their company’s network or data had been compromised, with an overwhelming 70% of respondents not believing that usernames and passwords provide an adequate level of security. IT professionals recognize the need for improved authentication standards, but have struggled with the complexity and cost of previous two-factor authentication offerings.

“PhoneFactor has made secure two-factor authentication inexpensive and simple for both administrators and end-users,” said Evan Conway, EVP & Chief Privacy Advocate with Positive Networks. “It is no longer acceptable for companies to rely on usernames and password to protect sensitive data.”

Positive Networks Inc.