Study: Security Fears Hurting Web Businesses

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – As Americans become more aware of risks associated with identity theft and computer attacks, they are less likely to share personal information or make transactions online, according to an annual study conducted by RSA Security.

The phone survey of more than 1,000 computer users revealed that while 61 percent feel they are more informed about identity theft and computer attacks than they were a year ago, 23 percent feel more vulnerable.

About 43 percent of respondents said concerns over security weaknesses have prompted them to stop dealing with websites that require them to give out personal information. More than half or those surveyed — 53 percent — said they have lost confidence in traditional user ID/password-based security schemes, and 70 percent believe websites aren’t providing adequate protection for their personal information.

“Clearly, there’s a lot of work to be done if businesses want to build more online trust with consumers,” said John Worrall, vice president of worldwide marketing at RSA Security. “While awareness of threats remains high, consumer confidence in dealing with threats is low.”

According to the survey, poor management of PINs and passwords for access to online services is the top security concern for most users, and consumers are increasingly insisting that websites provide members with a second level of protection beyond passwords.

“We’ve seen the beginnings of a trend toward the widespread replacement of passwords with better authentication methods,” Worrall said. “Its continuation will help bridge the gap between consumer awareness of identity theft and actual protection against it.”

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Anissa Kate, Jordan Starr Top AEBN for Q2 of 2025

AEBN has published its top-selling stars for the second quarter of 2025, with Anissa Kate landing atop the leaderboard for straight theaters and Jordan Starr heading up the gay rankings.

AEBN Reveals Eva Maxim as Top Trans Star for Q2 of 2025

AEBN has published its top trans stars list for the second quarter of 2025, with Eva Maxim landing atop the leaderboard.

France Reinstates Age Verification Rule for EU Sites

France’s highest court, the Council of State, on Tuesday reinstated age verification rules for EU-based sites under the country’s Security and Regulation of the Digital Space (SREN) law, ruling in favor of the French government and against Hammy Media.

Whisper Fans Joins Pineapple Support as Supporter-Level Sponsor

Whisper Fans has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

Utherverse Launches 'Red Light Center' Virtual World

Virtual reality and metaverse technology company Utherverse has launched its new virtual world, RedLightCenter.io.

European Commission Approves AV Guidelines, Unveils Prototype App

The European Commission on Monday released its final, approved guidelines for protecting minors online under the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) and made public a “white label” age verification app intended to help sites and platforms comply with age verification rules under the DSA.

New Membership Site 'Sluts Corner' Launches

R18 Entertainment has launched a new membership site, SlutsCorner.com.

Roxie Rae Relaunches Site Through XSiteAbility

Roxie Rae has relaunched her site through XSiteAbility.

Show More