Most Likely to Fall for Phishing Scams? Young Women

Photo: T.Tulic

Young women are most likely to fall victim to online scams, according to new research published by Internet security expert knowthenet.org.uk.

A survey of more than 2,000 Internet users measured individuals’ ability to detect and respond to seven types of online-scam scenario, ranging from spotting bogus social-networking sites to testing how consumers respond to competition scams or the sale of counterfeit goods online.

The findings reveal professional women aged 25-34 were the most likely to fall victim to scams such as phishing and competition scams, and the sale of counterfeit goods. By contrast, the research found professional men aged 35-44 were more likely to fall for “confidence trick” scams, such as emails or Facebook messages trying to persuade people to send money to help someone in distress.

Phil Kingsland, site director at knowthenet, said the company’s research shows that even confident web users can be vulnerable.

“The good news is that there are lots of simple, easy steps you can take to make it harder for the criminals,” he said. “You just need to stay aware and this site helps you to do that.”

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