A new survey of 1,800 adults who regularly use the internet show that web surfers are now more conscious of their online security. The study released by Ofcom, an independent monitor of the communications industry in the UK, compared the way people now feel about sharing personal information online to the way they felt in 2007, according to Webuser.co.uk WebUser.

Three years ago, 48 percent of people who interviewed said they were cautious when giving out personal information online. In the new study, that percentage has grown to almost two-thirds of adults, the source reports.

The rise in consumer security consciousness may be due to the rising instances of credit card identity theft. Approximately $500 million is lost annually due to credit card theft, according to SpamLaws.com.

Personal information is something that must be guarded carefully. If your credit card numbers fall into the wrong hands, you could find yourself in major debt. There are companies designed to protect consumers while they shop online.. If you are concerned about your personal information, look into one of these services to protect your earnings.