Students most at risk of internet crime

Students most at risk of internet crime

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Tuesday, 21, Apr 2009 08:18

Tech-savvy students are the most irresponsible internet users in the country, while retired "silver surfers" are the most cautious, a survey has revealed.

Now students are being urged to "wake-up" to the dangers of posting personal information online and failing to install security software.

The poll for the Government-sponsored GetSafeOnline.org advice website found more than half described themselves as "very" internet literate, but one in ten believed there was "no risk" of online crime.

One in five students admitted to posting important personal information online such as their date of birth or address, almost double the national average.

At the other end of the scale are retired internet users who despite being less confident than their younger counterparts, take far fewer risks.

Nearly nine in ten retirees said security software was a "key" protection measure and 70 per cent claim never to have taken the most common online risks (like opening an attachment on a mysterious email).

Psychologist Donna Dawson said students were more emotionally involved with the internet which led them to be less cautious.

She said: "Many students need the internet for social prestige; they are inclined to put their personal details online in order to attract friends and admirers, and push any associated risk out of conscious thought. The silver surfers have the right balance between a longer life-experience of risk and a lower emotional need for internet usage; they therefore tend to recognise the rationale for higher internet security."

Tony Neate, managing director of GetSafeOnline.co.uk, added: "These findings are a wake-up call for students in particular and we'd urge them to take immediate steps to reduce their risk, easily done by visiting our website.

"If they increase their understanding of the potential scams, and take the basic precautions that we recommend, they can significantly improve their online safety without losing the benefits and enjoyment of the internet."