As the holiday shopping season approaches, the message is clear: UK consumers need to be mindful of the cyber risks associated with securing discounts online. A new report by Norton reveals alarming statistics that indicate a concerning trend in digital identity theft as more shoppers share personal information in search of holiday deals.
The 2024 Norton Cyber Safety Insights Report highlights that a staggering 61% of UK shoppers have divulged sensitive information, including email and home addresses, to obtain discounts while shopping on the internet. This practice raises significant red flags, particularly in an environment where cyber threats are on the rise.
During the previous festive season, UK consumers faced a 53% increase in malvertising attacks, which typically involves misleading advertisements that lure unsuspecting users searching for deals or coupon codes. Compounding the issue, there was a dramatic 227% increase in adware distribution during the same period. This malicious software often goes unnoticed but can wreak havoc on users’ devices and personal data.
Iskander Sanchez-Rola, Norton’s Director of Innovation, underscores the dangers of providing personal information. He notes, “Shopping for deals isn’t a bad idea, but sharing your information can be incredibly dangerous. Anything personal can be tied back to you and may end up in the wrong hands.” This statement emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential consequences of sharing data, whether it be with seemingly legitimate retailers or through deceptive offers online.
The report underscores that 70% of British consumers actively seek discount codes through various means, including subscribing to mailing lists and participating in surveys. Alarmingly, 95% of these individuals shared their email addresses, while 64% provided their names, 36% shared their phone numbers, and 24% disclosed their home addresses. This information can be exploited by hackers and identity thieves who are constantly on the lookout for unsuspecting victims.
Moreover, the report highlights a concerning statistic: nearly half (48%) of UK shoppers are willing to share both their phone number and email address for discounts as modest as 25%. This willingness to trade personal information for savings could lead to disastrous consequences. Only 28% of respondents claimed they would refuse to provide personal details for a discount.
With data breaches becoming all too common, the report paints a dire picture of UK cyber security. Over half (51%) of respondents expressed fears about compromising their personal information through elaborate online shopping scams, a notable increase from the previous year’s 47%. Furthermore, 67% indicated strong concerns about becoming victims of cybercrime, up from 59%, highlighting a growing awareness of potential threats.
To combat these risks, Norton experts recommend several strategies for consumers looking to safeguard their personal information while shopping online. First, shoppers should consider using alternative email addresses that are not linked to their primary communications. This simple step can help create a buffer between personal life and shopping activities. Secondly, it is advisable to obtain discount codes directly from trusted retailers rather than relying on third-party sites that may not have adequate security measures in place.
This year, as UK consumers prepare to dive into the holiday shopping frenzy, the importance of vigilance cannot be overstated. Norton’s emphasis on awareness is crucial for ensuring that shoppers can protect themselves from identity theft while still enjoying the discounts they seek. With cyber threats showing no signs of abating, prioritizing digital safety should be atop the shopping checklist for all consumers.
In conclusion, the Norton report serves as a critical reminder that the pursuit of discounts should not come at the expense of one’s personal security. As consumers become more aware of the risks involved in online shopping, they must equip themselves with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the digital marketplace safely. By remaining cautious and informed, UK shoppers can enjoy the festive season without falling victim to cyber threats.
