2019 CIGI-Ipsos Global Survey on Internet Security and Trust: More trust in the internet is needed to promote digital economy

Ipsos on behalf of the Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), in partnership with the Internet Society (ISOC) and United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), conducted a global survey on internet security and trust of over 25,000 internet users worldwide. “The CIGI-Ipsos survey provides us with compelling evidence to help make decisions, shape policy and channel resources to reduce the digital divide in a way that is safe and still creates opportunities for development,” noted director of UNCTAD’s division on technology and logistics Shamika N. Sirimanne. The survey covers six key areas: a) internet security, online privacy and trust; b) social media, fake news and algorithms; c) product security: internet of things and other internet-enabled devices; d) cryptocurrencies, blockchain, dark web and product certification and e) cross-border data flows. Among the key findings of the survey is that 75% of those surveyed who do not trust the internet referred this to social media platforms including Facebook and Twitter among others. Also, 62% ascribed this to the lack of internet security. Additionally, the survey unveiled a digital divide between developed and developing economies vis-à-vis cryptocurrencies and other new internet frontiers. Individuals surveyed in developed countries were four times more inclined to buy cryptocurrencies with the next year compared to those in developing countries. According to UNCTAD, such survey can help developing countries design good internet governance and protection policies.