Internet Study: Cyber Threats and Cybercrime Awareness and Fear

The authors present public comprehension and attitudes towards cyber threats and cybercrime in Slovenia. Cyberspace has become a wide area which can be exploited through various criminal activities, considering that access to information technology and the Internet is ubiquitous. As the number of users grows, so does the number of cybercrime incidences. Regrettably, users of information technology and the Internet know too little about the dangers in cyberspace and the protective measures to maximize security; they are also poorly informed about the legislation pertaining to cybercrime. In order to accurately gauge the knowledge of the average Internet user, the authors conducted a survey which was posted on the Internet in spring 2011. This survey is the basis for an examination of the perception of cybercrime and an attempt to make sense of the fear of it. The statistical analysis of the questionnaires show, how users perceive cybercrime. On the basis of theory and the results of their research, the authors present basic guidelines that can, if respected, minimize security risks in cyberspace. These guidelines can help increase awareness of cyber threats and are a source of information on how to safely interact in cyberspace. Users who are aware of the risks in cyberspace and know how to deal with them are less afraid of becoming victims of cybercrime. The insights acquired in this study are useful for all cyberspace users and have practical value as they can be used for further study of cybercrime.