Global survey uncovers growing internet anxiety

More than half of respondents in 25 countries are more concerned about their privacy online than they were a year ago. according to a survey  released yesterday for e-Commerce Week 2018.

This is a jump of 5% from 2017 and reflects growing worldwide concerns about data privacy and online security.

Nearly four fifths of internet users in North America are concerned about their privacy online. In the Middle East and Africa, the share of those feeling “more concerned” grew from 55% to 61%.

The survey was carried out by the Centre for International Governance Innovation in collaboration with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, which this week hosts e-Commerce week (16-23 April).

“The survey underlines the importance of adopting and adapting policies to cope with the evolving digital economy” said Shamika Sirimanne, director of UNCTAD’s technology and logistics division.

Despite the concerns about privacy, trust in the internet was high in the majority of countries with more users shopping online than the previous year.

“Newcomers to the internet might be unaware of potential abuses and risks. Yet, this trust is essential for the successful expansion and use of e-commerce platforms and mobile payment systems in developing nations,” said Fen Osler Hampson, CIGI’s director of global security and politics.

Only 18% of internet user felt that the costs of new technology outweigh the benefits.

About the survey

The survey team and polled 25,262 internet users between 29 December 2017 and 5 March 2018.

The survey was conducted in 25 economies – Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, France, Germany, Hong Kong (China), India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Poland, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, South Africa, Sweden, Tunisia, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States.

To see additional data from the 2018 survey and previous editions, visit www.cigionline.org/internet-survey.


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