Pew reported that 68% of Internet users believe that “current laws are not good enough in protecting people’s privacy online” and as result 86% of Internet users “have taken steps online to remove or mask their digital footprints.” In September 2013 Pew Research published its Anonymity, Privacy, and Security Online report which also included the following statistics:
- 21% of internet users have had an email or social networking account compromised or taken over by someone else without permission.
- 13% of internet users have experienced trouble in a relationship between them and a family member or a friend because of something the user posted online.
- 12% of internet users have been stalked or harassed online.
- 11% of internet users have had important personal information stolen such as their Social Security Number, credit card, or bank account information.
Pew also reported that 59% of Internet users “do not believe it is possible to be completely anonymous online,” so unless Privacy Laws change virtually all users are at risk.