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Old study reveals that baby boomers show a superior understanding of internet safety compared to millennials

Online business news can motivate readers to bolster their digital security by implementing several protective measures.

Online research reveals that Baby Boomers exhibit greater knowledge and awareness concerning online...
Online research reveals that Baby Boomers exhibit greater knowledge and awareness concerning online safety compared to Millennials.

Old study reveals that baby boomers show a superior understanding of internet safety compared to millennials

In May 2018, a significant shift in data-collecting rules occurred in the European Union with the enactment of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This new law affects any U.S. company or entity, including charities and nonprofit organisations, that collects information and monitors consumer behaviour to comply.

The GDPR, designed to protect the privacy and personal data of EU citizens, has sparked a conversation about online privacy habits among internet users. A survey by Axios found that baby boomers are more diligent in guarding their online security compared to millennials. This trend was further supported by a 2018 study by OpenVPN, which reported that approximately 25% of employees do not change their passwords.

Despite internet users being aware that data brokers sell their personal information to advertisers and fraudsters, a significant number of users, particularly millennials, skip reading privacy policies and automatically agree to them. This lack of engagement with privacy policies is a cause for concern, as it leaves users vulnerable to data breaches and misuse.

The urgency of protecting oneself online has not been lost on everyone, however. Consumer desire for more workplace security is good news, according to OpenVPN. In fact, approximately 70% of consumers favor more biometrics in the workplace. Biometrics, including retina scans, iris recognition, finger scanning, finger vein ID, facial and voice recognition, offer enhanced security measures.

The preferences for biometrics differ among age groups. Millennials prefer the speed of biometrics, Gen Xers prefer the convenience of not having to remember passwords, and boomers value the enhanced security. A panel of readers representing different age groups can be assembled to discuss their online privacy habits and gain insights into this generational divide.

Inviting privacy experts to sit on the panel can provide valuable insights into understanding and interpreting privacy policies. It is essential for internet users to be aware of what they are agreeing to when they click "Accept" on a privacy policy.

The new law allows consumers to view and correct inaccurate information, among other things. It is crucial for internet users to take advantage of these rights and to take concrete action to protect themselves online.

As the GDPR continues to influence data-collecting practices in the United States, it is important for internet users to stay informed and proactive in safeguarding their personal data. Find out if your readers are taking advantage of this new law and making informed decisions about their online privacy.

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