Ofcom: Broadband take-up needs to be balanced with knowledge

There needs to be a balance between the rate of broadband take-up in the UK and the level of knowledge consumers have regarding online security, says Ofcom.

The broadband industry regulator voiced concern that although more people are getting access to the internet, the level of awareness regarding online security issues is not necessarily progressing at the same rate.

Recent Ofcom figures suggest nearly three-quarters of adults in the UK now have access to a broadband connection and the research suggested people are less likely to reveal personal information while using the internet.

The take-up figure suggests more people could also have access to VoIP hardware, potentially enabling them to communicate more cheaply online.

Robin Blake, head of media literacy at Ofcom, said: "We are delighted that we are working with a whole range of partners to raise awareness and to support people in their digital journeys as they start going online."

Nearly ten per cent more people shop online now than in 2007, according to figures from the Get Safe Online survey.