What Millennials Really Think About Privacy and Security

Katie H., a 25-year-old master’s degree graduate from California, thinks that technology makes it easier to get through school, get work done and stay in touch with people. “It’s helped me do homework and network with people when it comes to my career,” she says. She also uses Skype (a face-to-face video chat program) and other social media apps to connect with friends internationally. “I’ve made connections with friends in France and it helps me stay in touch. It’s great and part of my routine.” People 55 and over might be slower to adapt to all the latest technologies, but they still appreciate how the Internet makes everyday life simpler. It’s all about quick and easy access to helpful information. Darla J., who is 68 years old and thinks of herself as almost computer-illiterate, still goes online often when she needs information. And she finds it. “I use the Internet to find recipes, learn how to kill bugs that are eating the tomatoes in my garden and get help with keeping my old dog healthy. The Internet is like opening up an encyclopedia that’s got everything you want to know, right there at your fingertips. It’s all there.” Even though most people who go online are getting something positive out of it, a growing percentage of Americans are NOT happy with one byproduct of living so much of their lives online—the reality, or perception, of a loss of privacy. The survey revealed insights into how people feel about that: Of course, older generations (who view themselves as wiser, more cautious and more experienced) are warier of losing their privacy than are Millennials (the generation born between 1980 and 2000), who have lived in an era of constant technological advancement. So it’s not surprising to learn that about a quarter of that group said that technology is actually good for their privacy. “It’s not that I think our privacy is at risk,” said Steve L., a professional in his late 40s. “I know it is. All you have to do is watch the news or read it online, and read about all the companies that are getting hacked and having their data stolen. It worries me.” Katie H. agreed, but it doesn’t stop her from exploring all that new applications have to offer. “I’m young but not totally naive,” she explains. “I know that if you put something out there in cyberspace, there’s a chance it might wind up in some database, but is that necessarily dangerous? I’m counting on technology firms and security experts to do what it takes to protect us. You can’t slow progress.” However, not every younger person agrees. Christian M., 28, said he avidly follows his favorite teams online and counts on instant access to information, but he’s also aware that using some online applications, especially social media, can cause a lack of privacy and even lead to personal harassment. “It’s like anything else in life, I guess,” he says. “You have to take the bad with the good.” Most Americans would probably reluctantly agree with that assessment—but that’s also why many people are still wary of social media and the new technology that is designed to keep us connected online. Get hidden now. »» I want to hide my IP