Americans are so worried about the lack of online privacy that it is deterring them from using the Internet , according to a new survey by the United States Department of Commerce . Nearly 66 % cited identity theft as a problem , with almost 50 % worried about credit card or banking fraud . When asked what they were most concerned about in terms of online safety, almost 66 percent responded with identity theft, and almost half cited credit card or banking fraud. The agency warns that concerns over privacy and security could reduce economic activity and restrict the free exchange of ideas .
Americans are so worried about the lack of online privacy that it is deterring them from using the Internet , according to a new survey by the United States Department of Commerce . Nearly 66 % cited identity theft as a problem , with almost 50 % worried about credit card or banking fraud . The agency warns that concerns over privacy and security could reduce economic activity and restrict the free exchange of ideas .