
A new report released by Norton, a security software maker, indicates that 65 percent of global internet users have been victims of cyber crimes. In the U.S., the number is even higher - 73 percent of American web surfers have had personal information compromised on the web.
The study, known as The Norton Cybercrime Report: The Human Impact, also asked internet users about their beliefs and emotional responses surrounding cyber crime. The majority of participants said they were angry and annoyed, and a whopping 97 percent fear they will become a victim of cyber crime.
Unfortunately, only 44 percent of respondents say they have reported cyber crimes to the police. Experts from Norton say that reporting a crime can help stop criminals from taking advantage of others.
"Everyone can take simple steps, such as having up-to-date, comprehensive security software in place," said Anne Collier, who worked on the study. "In the case of online crime, an ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure."
The Electronic Frontier Foundation urges those who
shop online. to make sure to use a secure connection when shopping online. Using a secure payment service is one way to make sure that your personal data will not fall into the wrong hands.