IN AN era dominated by digital technology and smart devices, one might assume that consumers are well-versed in the intricacies of the online world.
However, a recent Kaspersky survey, ‘Excitement, Superstition and great Insecurity — How global Consumers engage with the Digital World’, reveals a surprising reality: even the tech-savvy younger generations harbor numerous misconceptions and superstitions when it comes to digital technology.
The survey highlights a widespread sense of insecurity among internet users. A significant 52 percent of respondents expressed feeling unsafe online, with concerns about chatbots impersonating real people and the potential creation of convincing digital replicas contributing to this unease. Additionally, nearly half of the respondents admitted to taking the precautionary measure of covering their webcams to prevent unauthorized observation.
Privacy concerns also loom large, with two-thirds of respondents worried about their movements being tracked through smartphones without their knowledge. The belief that digital assistants like Alexa or Siri are constantly listening and transmitting information is held by almost half of those surveyed.
The health implications of smartphone usage are another area rife with misconceptions.
There are widespread concerns over the health impacts the use of smartphones might have: 53 percent do not keep their smartphones on their nightstand when they sleep, 49 percent believe that they emit radiation that can be harmful. As many as 26 percent report that they get headaches when they make calls of more than a few minutes, the same number say that carrying a smartphone close to their body all day makes them feel unwell.
Attempts to minimize potential risks of using smartphones include 68% regularly emptying the recycling bin to remove the contents from the smartphone (which it does not), not charging their phones overnight as they might explode (38%) or catch fire (36%), and 25% using special covers to prevent hackers from accessing their data.
When it comes to online behavior, the survey reveals a lack of understanding about safe practices. A considerable number of respondents engage in online games and quizzes, sharing their results on social media without considering the potential privacy implications. The belief that public Wi-Fi networks are safe is also widespread, despite the well-known risks associated with them.
Furthermore, superstitions related to chain letters and the perceived invulnerability of iOS-based products persist among a significant portion of respondents. These misconceptions underscore a critical need for improved digital literacy and awareness.
The survey findings paint a complex picture of the digital landscape, where technological familiarity often coexists with unfounded beliefs and anxieties. The disconnect between the widespread use of digital technology and a genuine understanding of its implications is evident. It is imperative to bridge this knowledge gap through comprehensive digital literacy programs that empower consumers to navigate the online world safely and confidently.
As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, it is crucial to address these misconceptions and equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to protect their privacy, security, and well-being in the digital realm. Only then can we fully harness the benefits of technology while mitigating its potential risks.
