Young people most casual about online security

Nearly one in six (16%) people in Scotland has fallen victim to online fraudsters, according to a new study.

But just under one in four (39%) young people aged 18-34 in Scotland is worried about becoming a victim of online fraud in the next year, the Royal Bank of Scotland survey found. The report highlighted a general lack of online security awareness, particularly among younger audiences who are the most comfortable posting personal information online and using online payment methods.

It found young people in Scotland are least likely to instal security software on laptops, smartphones and tablets, with just over half (57%) of 18 to 24-year-olds saying they would not be likely to do so.

Despite banking passwords and Pins being the most obvious form of digital protection, nearly one in six (17%) young people aged 18-24 admitted to sharing this information.