Threats from cybercriminals are increasing – almost all internet users agree on this. 94 percent agree with this statement, up from 89 percent a year ago. At the same time, many online users admit to having little knowledge when it comes to their own IT security.
Only three in ten internet users
Feel they are able to adequately protect devices such as smartphones or computers from attacks by cybercriminals. And two-thirds (66 percent) say they wouldn’t even notice if strangers were spying on their computer or smartphone over the internet.
This is the result of a representative survey gambling database commissioned by the digital association Bitkom among more than 1,000 internet users in Germany. “Basic digital skills are also crucial for one’s own security on the internet,” says Susanne Dehmel, member of the Bitkom management board. “Simple measures can help against most online threats.”
These included regular software updates, two-way authentication and complex passwords .
More police presence on the internet called for
In the fight against cybercriminals , the vast majority of internet users want a greater police presence online. 87 percent agree that politicians should invest more money in special police units to specifically combat cybercrime.
82 percent demand that the police provide jennifer fitzhenry talent acquisition specialist a 24-hour emergency hotline for victims of cybercrime. Nearly half (46 percent) don’t even know who to contact for information about cybercrime protection measures. “Many users rightly want more information on IT security,” says Dehmel.
However, consumers also have a duty to actively address security issues.
Note on methodology:
This data is based on a representative survey belgium numbers conducted by Bitkom Research on behalf of the digital association Bitkom. 1,004 internet users aged 16 and older in Germany were interviewed by telephone. The survey is representative.
