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UK internet users have a greater fear of cyber crime than they do of traditional crimes like car theft, mugging, or burglary. This is according to a new report that highlights the growing concern over online crime as internet activity, particularly online shopping and banking, continues to increase. As the online retail and banking sectors experience rapid growth year after year, with the UK internet retail market expected to have a turnover of around £2 billion in 2006, it is becoming the fastest growing medium for retailers in the country. However, just like any marketplace, criminals see opportunities in this growing industry and the fear of online crime is becoming a major concern for people in the UK.

A recent report from Get Safe Online (GSOL) reveals that more UK citizens fear internet crime than they do traditional crimes such as burglary or mugging. In fact, 21% of the survey respondents identified internet crime as the highest risk, compared to 16% for burglary and 11% for mugging. This represents an increase from the previous year, where only 17% of respondents expressed a fear of internet crime.

GSOL, along with other organizations in this field, emphasizes that awareness and preparation among internet users are the most effective ways to guard against the risks of cyber crime. However, the survey also showed that 50% of respondents felt they had noticeable gaps in their knowledge about online safety, while 76% believed that it is the responsibility of the government and large businesses to protect users and customers from the risks of online crime. Despite online retail businesses and banks investing significant capital to address the issue, it is still important for individuals to be vigilant and take precautions against online crime.

Online shopping is increasingly becoming the norm, although internet search statistics reveal a wide range of user profiles within the online retail sector. While many people are comfortable conducting credit and debit card transactions online, a significant portion of the population uses the internet primarily for product and price comparisons, opting to make purchases offline. Other business models, such as Loot, employ a classified-style approach that connects buyers and sellers online, but requires in-person meetings to finalize transactions. This eliminates the risk of online crime while still taking advantage of the benefits of the internet for product and service discovery.

It is unlikely that the findings of the GSOL report will put a stop to the ongoing growth in online retail, but it does shed light on the issue of internet crime and the concerns shared by a large portion of the UK’s online community. Businesses that operate online are taking steps to address the issue, but as long as there is money to be made, criminals will continue to exploit any vulnerabilities. It is important for individual users to remain cautious and informed in order to minimize risks. For those who prefer to avoid online purchases altogether, there are alternative businesses available that allow them to circumvent the risks entirely.

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Ihab Salloum