Half of Spaniards still do not make purchases on the Internet because of distrust

Half of Spaniards still do not make purchases on the Internet because of distrust

The turnover of online purchases in the first half of this year was almost 25% more than the previous one, however, the protection of personal data, the fear of virtual fraud and the lack of tangible guarantees distance many consumers from this method

The turnover of electronic commerce reached 24,185 million euros in 2016 and exceeded 6,700 million in the first quarter of 2017, almost 25% more than the previous year according to data from the National Commission of Markets and Competition (CNMC). In addition, this year credit cards surpassed the population of Spain, reaching 51 million units, a figure that coincides with the increase of 71% in annual spending on online purchases of the last five years.

Despite this strong growth, half of Spaniards still do not trust virtual transactions. The vulnerability of personal data, the ignorance of rights as consumers, the insecurity in the networks or the lack of prosecution of fraudulent behaviors are part of the reasons that discourage these potential consumers. For this reason, the Spanish Agency for Data Protection (AEPD), the National Institute of Cybersecurity (Incibe), the Spanish Agency for Consumer Affairs, Food Safety and Nutrition (Aecosan) and the National Police presented a practical guide to secure purchase on the Internet , thinking about generating a climate of certainty and sustainable growth in electronic commerce.

Mar Spain Marti, director of AEPD, pointed out that "the objective of this guide is to give citizens confidence in the use of the Internet to make purchases, because the percentage of those who do not use these services due to fear or ignorance is still very high" . In addition, he pointed out that the document intends to advise companies that do not yet have a website to promote their growth through digital e-commerce. "As Bill Gates says: A company that is not on the Internet, does not exist," the director concluded.

The head of the Central Office of Citizen Security and Coordination of the National Police, Antonio de la Rosa, explained that although its objective is "to pursue criminal activities that affect the merchant and the client, prevention is better than cure". And he said that we must be alert to 'phising' (cybercrimes of identity theft with the intention of obtaining data or money from the victim), public Wi-Fi networks and "the permits we grant to mobile applications".

The instrument contains basic tips to buy safely on the Internet, recommending above all that transactions are made on pages that "inspire confidence", trying to have a secure connection to the network before providing personal data. In addition, it calls to be suspicious of "overly attractive offers" and to inquire about the rights and guarantees that assist buyers of a product or service. Finally, experts point out that one of the safest means of payment for purchases 'online' is "cash on delivery", in which cash is paid only once the package has been received and verified that the order is correct, reducing the possibilities of confusion or deception.