Three quarters of Internet users are affected by cybercrime, according to a survey by the industry association Bitkom published on Monday. On the other hand, 22 percent stated that they had had no experience with malware, fraud when shopping online or insults on social networks.
Bitkom CEO Bernhard Rohleder said that those who use the Internet must expect to meet criminals. “That’s why it’s important that everyone takes appropriate security measures – from using secure passwords to installing anti-virus software to sharing personal information sparingly.”
According to the survey, almost half of the users reported that personal data was passed on unsolicited. 29 percent were victims of fraud when shopping online and 13 percent in money transactions. In 27 percent, the computer was infected with malicious programs such as viruses.
17 percent noticed such incidents on their smartphones. According to the survey, there were also numerous criminal offenses in direct interaction with other users. 23 percent were seriously insulted or attacked. 9 percent were sexually harassed – with 13 percent women were affected more often than men (6 percent).
A third of those affected did not react to the incidents, as the association further announced. Around half sought to talk to friends and acquaintances.
Almost half also contacted the company that was connected with the criminal activity, such as the social media platform, the bank or the e-mail provider. 18 percent filed criminal charges with the police. (dpa)
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