On 29 of January, the Commission released its latest Eurobarometer on Europeans’ attitudes towards cybercrime.
According to the survey, cybercrime awareness is rising. 52% of respondents are stating they are fairly well or very well informed about cybercrime, compared to 46% in 2017. However, less Europeans feel they can protect themselves suficiently: 59%, down from 71% in 2017.
Respondents worry about misuse of their personal data, fraud, being locked out of their computer and forced to pay ransom to access their own data, as well as about identity theft. More than a third have received fraudulent emails or phone calls asking for personal details in the last three years; 8% fell victim to ransomware, and 11% had their social media account or email account hacked. This has an impact on their willingness to use online services: for example, 10% say their concerns make them less likely to make purchases online.
The full results of the survey can found on the European Commission’s Public Opinion page and more information in the Press release.
Background
Keeping Europeans safe online is a priority for the Commission. The EU has advanced in the fight against cybercrime, with for instance stronger rules against online payment fraud and better assistance to victims. The EU also helps building up the capacity of law enforcement authorities to tackle cybercrime, with the European Cybercrime Centre at Europol supporting Member States by providing tools, expertise, and coordination of police action. More generally, the EU supports Member States’ cybersecurity preparedness and promotes swift and effective cooperation on cybersecurity issues, through a comprehensive legal framework including the Directive on security of network and information systems (NIS Directive), the EU Cybersecurity Act, the European Blueprint
Details
- Publication date
- 29 January 2020