Digital anxiety report
We recently conducted a survey of a nationally representative sample to see how many people struggle with digital anxiety – and what’s causing it.
What we found? Most internet users are under intense digital stress, for reasons that millions of people worldwide can likely relate to.
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Key insights
Nearly 80% of people feel digital anxiety
The mere prospect of experiencing a single serious online incident – like an email or social media hack, or discovering that you're being monitored online – is enough to trigger digital anxiety.
1 in 6 users show signs of digital panic
Tech-savvy individuals and those who’ve experienced a cybersecurity incident in the past tend to feel the highest levels of digital stress when engaging in online activities.
Over 50% worry about their financial data
Today’s users are primarily concerned about protecting their financial information, online account credentials, personal data, and photos of their children – fearing the risks of unwanted exposure.
Top causes of digital anxiety
Account takeover, identity theft, and scam. Our study shows that digital stress mostly comes from the fear of facing cybersecurity issues. However, mild to moderate anxiety was reported due to excessive ads or lack of internet access. This indicates that even minor inconveniences can take a toll on our mental well-being.
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77% of people struggle with digital anxiety
We’ve found that just one cybersecurity incident can cause users to feel mild digital anxiety. Almost a third of respondents say that 5 to 10 incidents leave them feeling high levels of digital anxiety.
Anything over 10 incidents is considered digital panic, something nearly 1 in 6 respondents have experienced.
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Digital panic is highest among the most cybersecurity-aware
Digital anxiety is more common among those who are highly conscious of the cybersecurity risks and always keep up with best practices.
25%
Expert
(41% of respondents)
Can diagnose and resolve software or hardware problems, understand system performance optimization techniques.
19%
Advanced
(28% of respondents)
Can resolve network connectivity or device compatibility issues, as well as troubleshoot other problems.
21%
Intermediate
12% of respondents)
Can research and select technology products or apps, and securely back up, transfer, and manage data.
16%
Beginner
(19% of respondents)
Can use basic software applications like email and web browsers, and update the device's system.
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Financial data is what people want to protect the most
Finding out that our financial details, personal information, or online account credentials got leaked would not only put us at risk but also cause a lot of digital anxiety. This also explains why these are the types of data users want to keep the most secure.
30% worry about their family’s online safety
Cybersecurity worries go beyond just ourselves – they include our loved ones as well. Our study shows that a third of respondents feel uneasy about the digital security of their children and parents. Additionally, 25% worry about their partner’s digital security, and 22% are concerned about other relatives’ online safety.
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Generation X feel the most digital panic
Compared to other generations, people born between 1965 and 1981 experience digital panic more often than others. The second group most troubled by this is Generation Y (Millennials).
47% trust themselves with their cybersecurity
Interestingly, when asked who they trust most to handle cybersecurity incidents, the most common answer was that they trust themselves.
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Nearly 50% say an all-in-one solution would ease their digital anxiety
Cybersecurity measures that would make people less anxious
Using the right tools to protect yourself online is essential, but having to use multiple ones isn’t ideal for most people.
In fact, more than half of respondents say that they would feel much more comfortable if they could just use one cybersecurity tool that covers VPN, password management, and threat detection.
Research breakdown
Sample size: 1,010 respondents
We surveyed individuals aged 18 to 78 with varying levels of tech expertise and cybersecurity awareness.
Country: United States
All survey participants are residents of the US.
Research period: November, 2024
The survey was conducted from November 14–22, 2024.
Practical steps to minimize your digital anxiety
Control how much data you take in
Manage your alerts and turn off sounds and vibrations for your app notifications to avoid information overload and constant pressure.
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Set up a VPN for safer browsing
Avoid risky Wi-Fi connections and keep your online activities private by using a VPN service, such as NordVPN.
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Go offline for a while
Spend time away from screens to reset your mind and reduce the stress caused by constant connectivity.
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Use a password manager
Store and manage your passwords with NordPass to ensure they’re well protected, difficult to crack, and easily available when you need them.
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Blog articles for peace of mind
Read for better digital life.
Get in touch
If you need more information or advice on how to handle digital anxiety, we’re here to help - just reach out to us at [email protected] and we will get back to you shortly.
Useful helpline and support contacts
Reach out to any of these organization in case you need professional support.
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NHS mental health services
Free mental health help available 24/7 provided by professionals. Get support for you, your child, your parent, or someone you care about in case of an emergency.
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Samaritans
Available 24/7 to provide confidential emotional support for people facing feelings of distress, despair, or suicidal thoughts.