 TITLE: Survey: The Impact of COVID-19 on Fraud and Identity Theft CONTENT: Despite Fraud Concern, Online Shopping Is Up\n--------------------------------------------\nThough those we surveyed were aware of new COVID-19 related fraud, 33% reported doing more online shopping now than they did before. And while a spike in online shopping is understandable—much of the country is under orders to stay at home—as you share more personal information online, you become more exposed to the possibility of fraud.\nThe risk of fraud while shopping online is something most consumers we spoke with have taken to heart. In fact, 52% of those we surveyed said they were somewhat, very or extremely worried their bank account information could be stolen while shopping online. Another 54% were at least somewhat concerned that their online shopping accounts (like Amazon) will be hacked, and 57% at least somewhat worried generally that shopping online could result in a loss of personal data such as a Social Security number.\nAt the other end of the spectrum, nearly one-third (30%) of respondents said they were actually shopping online less in light of the COVID-19 crisis. This reduction could be the result of several factors, including economic hardship or the desire to protect against the possibilities of fraud during this period. END