About two thirds of adults in the US consider taking away their business soon after a data breach, according to a new Cintas commissioned survey carried out by Harris Interactive.
Cintas marketing manager John Otten said, with every data breach comes a cost, including lost productivity, a damaged reputation and most importantly, decreased revenue when customers take their business elsewhere.
"This research confirms that by failing to make security a priority, businesses can discourage once-loyal customers from returning," Otten said.
"It could also stop potential customers from ever patronising your business."
About 55% of the surveyed adults would change their banks upon data breach, while 46% of them considered switching insurance firms, 42% of them would visit a different drug store/pharmacy and 40% change their doctor or dentist.
Survey respondents cited charitable giving as another at-risk area for brand impact following a breach, with 38% of them preferring to donate to a different charity/non-profit organisation, while 24% would no longer donate to their alma mater or another educational institution.
The survey also revealed that 39% would appoint a new lawyer after data breach.
"Businesses must be proactive in protecting data by using secure document management solutions that guard confidential business, employee and customer information," Otten added
"By partnering with a document management provider, companies can implement a customised, secure solution that will help ensure information is protected at all times."
