European Computer Users Falling Victims to Cyber Crime

Ipsos conducted a research for AVG Technologies in which it revealed that more than one in 5 computer users in Europe are victims of cyber-crime while about 22% of end-users subjected to some form of Internet crime, as reported by Vnunet on June 9, 2008.

According to the AVG Officials, the high rate of online criminal activity poses a threat to the economic resources of the European Union. This is evident from the fact that 6 Million computers are infected to connect with botnets, while spam is causing a loss of €65 Billion per year to businesses.

The research revealed that the Italians experienced the worst impact of cyber crime with 32% of computer users affected, while UK followed closely at 31%. Almost half (47%) of all German users feel that they could potentially turn into a victim due to increasing Internet crimes. Also, more European users, about 34% feel that they are likely to suffer from the cyber crime, while 25% fear of robbery, 22% burglary and 19% assault as spamming methods are growing on the Internet.

According to J R Smith, Chief Executive, AVG Technologies, within a span of few years, cyber threats have transformed from amateurish criminal activity into a profession. As the world appears to flatten and boundaries are disappearing on the Internet, it becomes vital for companies and home computer users to be assured that they are conducting online transactions safely.

AVG further pointed out two principal behavioral patterns that are leading European computer users towards cyber crime. These are the increasing use of the net for more sensitive dealings and lack of awareness and protection for home computer users against spam.

Incidentally, the low levels of awareness about cyber crime and their prevention has ended up with no antivirus safeguards on 18% of home PCs, while 38% of home users claim that they do not have enough information on cyber crimes and how to overcome them. The lack of information regarding spamming techniques and the ensuing spam mails apparently stimulates the end-users' fear.

» SPAMfighter News - 6/26/2008