Brits lose over £7 billion worth of MP3s in digital blackhole

Downloading has now become a way of life with almost two thirds (62 per cent) of us downloading music. However, research by moneysupermarket.com reveals Brits aren't always so lucky with technology, having lost over 9 billion tracks to the tune of £7.6bn.

Although millions of people are plugging into the digital revolution, they're not giving much thought towards backing up their data, as three in 10 (29 per cent) admit to having lost their digital music collection completely.

The younger generation is the most unfortunate, with a fifth (21%) of twenty-somethings losing an average of 1,165 songs each. The hip-hop lovers amongst us aren't so streetwise either, with 26 per cent of them having lost their collections for good.

Clearly not a priority for some, a third (30 per cent) of music downloaders don't back up their music library at all. Those who prefer new age and relaxation tunes are the most chilled out about backing up their music files, with 41 per cent not bothering to do so.

James Parker, commercial manager of broadband at moneysupermarket.com, said: "I'm surprised there aren't more people backing up - especially when you think of how much an entire collection could be worth. At 79p for a single or £7.99 for an album, a lot of money is invested in digital collections, particularly when you consider most people have over a 1000 tracks.

"Because mp3s are intangible, it's too easy to forget the file is actually worth something and has been paid for. If you'd bought a CD you can actually hold in your hand you'd take much more care of it."

Twenty-somethings average the most songs in their music libraries, keeping it stocked with approximately 1,657 tracks, compared with the over 50s who keep a library averaging just 380 songs each.

Parker adds: "The popularity of downloading music tracks and the increasing uptake of services like BBC iPlayer explain why broadband packages with unlimited downloads are so popular. However, it's important to consider whether your provider has a download cap in place as you could be charged if you go over it, or you may face service restrictions for abusing the fair usage policy of an unlimited deal."