A new poll conducted by WSJ/NORC has revealed that Americans are increasingly concerned about cybersecurity threats and the potential for fraud. The poll, which surveyed 1,019 adults between March 1-13, 2023, found that 68% of respondents were either very concerned or somewhat concerned about the security of their personal information online. This is an increase from the 64% who expressed concern in a similar poll conducted in 2020.
According to the poll results, younger Americans are particularly worried about cybersecurity threats, with 75% of respondents aged 18-29 expressing concern. The poll also found that concerns about cybersecurity and fraud were higher among those with lower incomes and education levels.
One respondent, a 37-year-old woman named Ms. Morrow, expressed her concerns about the security of her personal information online. "I worry about my identity being stolen, my bank accounts being hacked, and my credit being ruined," she said.
The poll results come amid a growing number of high-profile cyberattacks on companies and government agencies. In recent years, companies like Equifax, Target, and Marriott have all suffered major data breaches, exposing the personal information of millions of customers.
The poll also found that Americans are increasingly concerned about the potential for fraud. When asked about the likelihood of fraud in the upcoming presidential election, 51% of respondents said they believed it was very or somewhat likely. This is an increase from the 44% who expressed concern about fraud in a similar poll conducted in 2020.
The poll results have implications for businesses and organizations that collect and store personal information online. Companies that fail to adequately protect their customers' data risk damaging their reputation and losing business. In addition, companies that experience data breaches may be subject to legal action and financial penalties.
In response to the poll results, cybersecurity experts are urging individuals and businesses to take steps to protect their personal information online. This includes using strong passwords, avoiding phishing scams, and keeping software up to date.
The WSJ/NORC poll is just one example of the valuable research and reporting provided by The Wall Street Journal. As a global media and information services company, News Corp is committed to providing authoritative and unbiased news coverage across a variety of topics.
In other news, shares of payments firm Block have tumbled following the announcement that no companies with investment-grade credit ratings sold new bonds in the first quarter of 2023. According to a report in The Wall Street Journal, the lack of bond sales is a sign that investors are becoming increasingly cautious amid concerns about rising interest rates and inflation.
The report notes that Block's shares have been particularly hard hit, falling by more than 10% in the wake of the news. The company, which provides mobile payment and financial services, has struggled to gain traction in a competitive market.
The news comes as investors continue to grapple with a range of economic and political uncertainties. Inflation and interest rates are expected to rise in the coming months, while geopolitical tensions remain high.
Despite these challenges, many investors remain optimistic about the long-term outlook for the market. As always, it is important for investors to stay informed and to make investment decisions based on a thorough understanding of the risk and opportunities involved.
Elsewhere, The Wall Street Journal has published an in-depth report on the culture at Silicon Valley Bank. The report, based on interviews with current and former employees, paints a picture of a company that is focused on innovation and growth, but that also struggles with issues of diversity and inclusion.
According to the report, some employees have raised concerns about the lack of diversity in the company's leadership ranks, as well as about the company's handling of harassment and discrimination complaints. However, many employees also praise the company for its supportive culture and its commitment to innovation.
The report is a reminder that corporate culture is a critical factor in the success of any organization. Companies that prioritize diversity, inclusion, and innovation are more likely to attract and retain top talent, and to build a strong and resilient business over the long term.
In conclusion, the WSJ/NORC poll results highlight the growing concern among Americans about cybersecurity threats and fraud. Companies that collect and store personal information online must take steps to protect their customers' data, or risk damaging their reputation and losing business. Meanwhile, investors are grappling with a range of economic and political uncertainties, including rising interest rates and inflation. And finally, corporate culture is a critical factor in the success of any organization, and companies that prioritize diversity, inclusion, and innovation are more likely to build a strong and resilient business over the long term.
