An increasing number of UK consumers are becoming more cautious about online safety in light of recent security scandals over the internet, according to research.
They also feel "out of control", scared and frustrated when using the internet, the research by password manager firm DashLane found.
The research, which surveyed 1,000 UK consumers, highlights the scale of the fear, as one in four admitted to feeling more vulnerable online
The research results found that 47% now take a greater interest in being safe online in light of recent security scares, such as the celebrities’ leaked iCloud photos and the hacking of UK webcams.
However, less than a third have actually taken any steps to improve their digital security as a result.
The research also revealed that 48% of consumers feel they do not have control over their online lives, while 45% admitted that technology takes up too much of their time.
"Improved connectivity, reduced cost of access and the consumerisation of IT have brought the internet into all aspects of our lives.The trend is set to continue with the advent of wearable devices and the Internet of Things," said Guillaume Desnoës, head of European Markets at Dashlane.
"This is no bad thing – we created and have embraced this new way of living. But the deeper we go, the harder it is for us to maintain control. That’s why we’re issuing a call to arms for consumers to #RestoreControl to their online lives in 2015."
The survey also revealed the scale of consumer frustration, with more than half of consumers complaining about registering to use online services, while 43% complained about having to remember multiple passwords.
