(BPT) - It’s no coincidence that Microsoft chose to launch Windows 8 in late October – just weeks before Black Friday and the holiday shopping season. Nearly 60 percent of shoppers intend to hit stores in December, when dozens of new PCs, laptops and tablets loaded with Windows 8 will be available.

If you plan to pick up a new Windows 8 device this year, make sure you take the time to secure your investment. The 2012 Norton Cybercrime Report found cybercrime is on the rise – with 71 million Americans falling victim in the last year – and even Windows 8 will leave you vulnerable.

“When consumers rush to adopt the latest high-tech gadget, security is often an afterthought. It’s important to secure your device to protect your investment as well as your personal data,” says Marian Merritt, Internet safety advocate with Norton by Symantec.