Public fear internet crime over burglary

Fear of internet crime is on the increase, according to Get Safe Online’s second annual report. At the start of Get Safe Online Week, the report reveals 21 per cent of people think e-crime is the type of crime they are most likely to encounter, up from 17 per cent last year, and they fear it more than mugging, car theft and burglary.

Oct 19, 2006
By David Howell

Fear of internet crime is on the increase, according to Get Safe Online’s second annual report. At the start of Get Safe Online Week, the report reveals 21 per cent of people think e-crime is the type of crime they are most likely to encounter, up from 17 per cent last year, and they fear it more than mugging, car theft and burglary.

The new research suggests growing fear of Internet crime is deterring the public from using the Internet for everyday activities.

Nearly three quarters of those questioned for this year’s report said they needed more information to arm themselves against online threats and 40 per cent are still not sure where to seek advice. Last year’s roadshow campaign resulted in an increase of nearly 30 per cent in the public ensuring they were more secure online and Get Safe Online want to build on this.

Tony Neate, managing director of Get Safe Online said: “It’s vital we make people aware of resources such as www.getsafeonline.org to ensure they continue to use the internet safely and confidently. Get Safe Online is committed to this long term awareness campaign. It is about education and making people aware that, yes, these dangers are real, but armed with the right knowledge, we can all continue to enjoy using the internet securely.”

The Get Safe Online campaign, which is now in its second year, is the UK’s first national Internet security awareness campaign. A joint initiative between the government, the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) and private sector sponsors from the worlds of technology, retail and finance, the campaign continue to raise awareness, primarily through the campaign’s website.

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