Il digital is now an integral part of the life of Italians, but the cyber-fears are not lacking. This is the snapshot 2nd Report on the value of connectivity in Italy made by Census in collaboration with WINDTRE. The research presented today shows the approach of Italians towards technology, which has a double face, especially when evaluating its impact on everyday life.
Digital is essential, but it generates cyber-fears according to Censis and WindTre
Today we were able to watch the presentation of the report in streaming “Living and evaluating the digital life”, created by Censis in collaboration with WINDTRE. Giorgio De Rita, General Secretary of Censis, presented him to us. And they discussed it with him Roberto BassoDirector of External Affairs and Sustainability of WINDTRE, Giusella FinocchiaroCo-founder and partner of DigitalMediaLaws Milano-Bologna, Alberto GambinoVice Rector of the European University of Rome, Mario Staderini, Director of Studies and Research of Agcom and Vania Zadro, Didactic Coordinator of Agenzia La Fabbrica. And the honorable too Francesco VerducciVice-president of the Extraordinary Commission for the fight against intolerance phenomena of the Senate of the Republic, connected in streaming.
Data in hand, the importance of the connection is evident for Italians. By any means. In fact the 71.5% of citizens use both the fixed and mobile networks, while only 17.7% use the mobile line and 10.8% only the fixed network.
WindTreparticularly interested in the demands that Italians have regarding connections, found that the speed is ffundamental for 51.6%. While 41.7% need connections reliable and without interruptions. Important for assistance for 31.1%. Indeed, the 43.9% of Italians would pay something more for these results. Given that it rises to 51.5% among graduates and 55.0% among young people.
Connection is therefore essential. But there is no shortage of fears.
Cyber-fears related to digital
While it is true that many Italians believe a good connection is essential, they are well aware of the risks associated with being connected. In fact the 56.6% of Italians (and 61.9% of young people) are afraid for their IT security. Especially when it comes to online banking.
Hacker attacks on institutions, businesses and citizens count a lot in the conscience of digital citizens. Also, worry about access to the network by minors (34.7%), especially considering that the average age for the first contact with the web is getting lower and lower (today we are around 10 years old according to what was reported during the event).
But the risks remain important of web addiction and threats to mental health (23.7%). Especially among young people, a lot of awareness for the ‘hater ‘that attack on the web (22.0%).
The 5G theme: most are in favor
During the presentation of the report and in the subsequent discussion, it is highlighted that fake news is not a factor to be underestimated. But the much-targeted 5G still generates enthusiasm among Italians. The 57.1% are in favor, since it rises to 68.4% of young people and 62.5% for graduates. Only 14.9% think it is bad for their health, while 28% are uncertain.
The desire to connect quickly therefore seems stronger than conspiracy theories.
The benefits of digital platforms
Italians use digital a lot, in every area. 64.8% listen to music and podcasts via the internet, 64.7% watch films and TV series, 39.5% follow sports events, 31.9% read books, 19.3% train. So the opinion on the use of the web is positive.
In fact, 49.0% think it amplifies the audience of people who can access culture and entertainment. Even 30.8% think that it shortens the distances between generations and for 30.6% between the various countries. Minorities those who underline the disadvantages: the 17.9% fear the excess of power of large platforms17.5% fear that social and cultural inequalities will increase and 14.3% see the risk of a drop in the quality of the offer.
Finally, the digital in the Public administration it is just sent back to judgment. In fact, 46.3% think that it has generated only marginal benefits, while 32.7% think that digitalization has profoundly improved the public administration. 21% remain skeptical. But the 50.5% use digital PA servicesand when they are available, beyond cyber-fears and skepticisms.
From the discussion that followed the presentation of the research, it seems clear that there are positive signs. But the institutions and WindTre have worked hard to increase the level of digital training in schools and among the population. The cknowledge of risks and exploitation of potential they can act as a keystone for the country’s digital future.
Find the report on the Censis website.