Thomas Lyons 
A recent survey conducted by the Worldwide Independent Network of Market Research (WIN) has revealed that six out of ten people in Ireland experienced phishing at some stage last year. This marks the highest level of phishing seen in any country globally. Close to 30,000 respondents from 36 countries contributed to the annual WIN World Survey for 2022. The survey shows that Ireland seems to be “especially targeted” by fraudulent activity.
The survey also reveals that bank/credit card-related hacking and fraud is on the rise in Ireland, up almost 50% in the past two years. More than one in five adults (22%) experienced their bank account or credit card being hacked last year, with younger age groups and those in Dublin most at risk.
The number of those experiencing phishing in Ireland has risen from 43% in 2019 to 59% in 2022. Ireland is now tied with France for the highest level of phishing incidences anywhere in the world. This is a worrying trend and highlights the need for better cybersecurity measures in the country.
The survey also found that more than half the Irish population (52%) are worried about sharing personal information online. Furthermore, fewer than one in three people are aware of how their personal information is used when they do share it. This lack of awareness is a cause for concern and suggests that more education is needed to help people understand the risks associated with sharing personal information online.
Almost three in five Irish adults feel that social networks are overwhelming their life, while only one in three believe that new technological innovations are helping to organise their life better. This suggests that people are becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of technology on their lives.
Richard Colwell, CEO of RED C Research which is the Irish member of the WIN Network, said that rising experiences of fraudulent activity amongst the Irish public are “of significant concern”. He added that “The fact that we are near the top globally is not something to be shouting about. There is clearly more needed to be done to help people better understand when to share data and when not to, in order to better help build confidence in those working legally in this space.”
In conclusion, the survey highlights the need for better cybersecurity measures in Ireland. It also suggests that more education is needed to help people understand the risks associated with sharing personal information online. The Irish government and other relevant authorities should take note of these findings and take steps to address these issues.
