Privacy on the Internet: Consumer problem for the interactive age?

Abstract

Because of the rapid advances in technology of the Information Age, concern over information privacy has gained momentum as a significant consumer issue. Past studies indicate that the number of people who believe they give up their privacy to participate in the consumer society is significantly increasing, as is their fear of even greater loss of privacy in the future (Equifax, 1991; Harris & Wesfin; 1979; Johnson, 1984; Katz & Tassone, 1990; Schwartz & Edmondson, 1991; Smith, H.J., 1994). There has been little academic research conducted to examine the impact of the Internet on a consumer's attitudes toward privacy. The purpose of this study is to examine current attitudes toward privacy in relation to the Informafion Superhighway, to identify the concerns over privacy of Internet users, and to determine whether legislation and policies adequately address privacy concerns.