Internet Security Learning Center

New Cyber Security Study Shows Consumers are Overconfident About Identifying Online Scams

There is a difference between perception and reality when it comes to consumers' awareness of online scams and their actual online behavior, according to the Online Fraud Report, which was sponsored by the National Cyber Security Alliance. The study found that 87 percent of consumers surveyed said they were confident they could recognize fraudulent emails, but 61 percent failed to identify a legitimate email. The majority of respondents categorized all emails in the study as fake, even though one of them was legitimate. Sixty-seven percent of consumers could also not identify a secure Web site, according to the study. "We are making progress, as consumers are more aware than ever of a range of online threats," said the National Cyber Security Alliance's Ron Teixeira. "However, it is clear that the sense of confidence many feel in their ability to identify online scams is misplaced and overstated. As people continue to conduct more of their activities and transactions online, fraudsters will continue to present sophisticated scams. This study reinforces the necessity for consumers to educate themselves regularly about safe online practices in order to stay ahead of the next threat." The report also found that more than four out of five people surveyed believe that limiting and preventing online fraud should be a responsibility equally shared by the legitimate Web site, themselves, and Internet service providers. Industry experts recommend that consumers install firewalls and anti-virus software, and confirm the legitimacy of all requests for sensitive information to prevent online fraud.

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