Consumer Focus identifies blocks to broadband use

Consumer Focus has released a report, entitled Broadband minded: encouraging low income consumers online, which identifies the barriers preventing individuals from getting online and making use of a VoIP UK service.

According to Consumer Focus, fears over viruses, personal data scrutiny and new technology are stumbling blocks for some users, along with a general misunderstanding of how internet access affects communication.

Further education is needed for the majority of offline consumers to see and appreciate the benefits of the internet, according to the report.

Mike O'Connor CBE, chief executive of Consumer Focus said: "Government has made it a priority to encourage people to get online, especially those on low incomes. Cost is not the only issue and if the government wants more people online they need to deal with consumers' fears about the internet".