More than one-fifth of computer users will still not manage their finances online because of fears about web safety, says a report by government-backed internet security awareness campaign Get Safe Online (GSOL).
And fear of e-crime has the potential to damage UK businesses as more companies move services online, says GSOL managing director Tony Neate.
‘Businesses have to build consumer confidence because that is a big threat. It is not about scaremongering, it is about educating people,’ said Neate.
Speaking at the launch of GSOL’s second annual awareness campaign, Cabinet Office parliamentary secretary Pat McFadden said web safety is an important issue for all organisations.
‘There are a proportion of people who are worried about what can happen when they go online for banking services, in case their personal information is misused,’ he said.
‘As well as protecting their computer, people need to protect themselves by being careful with passwords, financial information and account details. We need to get these initiatives adopted by more ISPs and companies.’
This year GSOL’s campaign is a call to arms from government and industry to promote internet safety.
Nick Staib, HSBC manager for personal internet banking, says once people have tasted the convenience of internet banking they are not going to be deterred by fear of online crime.
‘No one loses any money, because we pay them back, and I have never spoken to anyone who has stopped banking as a result of it,’ he said. ‘Anywhere between 3,000 to 4,000 people a day take up internet banking.’
Staib says HSBC is driving new customers to the GSOL web site to educate them about the potential threats. The bank’s welcome pack gives users information about GSOL, while they are also given a link to the GSOL web site every time they log on to their HSBC account.
‘If the worst happens and you give your details to a phishing email we will probably notice it before you do,’ said Staib.
‘We have dedicated staff who talk to the customer to explain what has happened and educate them,’ he said.
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