A recent study by NordVPN reveals a growing concern among Spaniards regarding their online privacy, with 35% of respondents globally wanting to erase personal information from the internet, up from 30% in 2022. This shift reflects a broader trend where users are increasingly unwilling to accept permanent digital footprints.
In Spain, 59% of individuals feel exploited by companies that collect and sell their data. Notably, one in four Spaniards fears their devices will be hacked. Furthermore, 56% express a desire to delete their banking information from the cloud, while 25% wish to remove their profiles from dating apps and social media.
Despite this desire for data erasure, 46% of Spaniards lack the knowledge to do so effectively. Additionally, 40% are concerned about sharing personal health conditions or their partner's identity online. This growing awareness of digital privacy risks has led many to seek more control over their data and a stronger right to be forgotten.
Marijus Briedis, CTO of NordVPN, emphasizes that as technology evolves, new protective measures will emerge to safeguard citizens' privacy. He advises users to minimize personal data sharing, use VPNs for secure browsing, enhance account security with strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, and avoid data brokers.
Interestingly, while a third of Spaniards would pay up to 100 euros for anonymous internet usage, 62% would not spend money on privacy measures, highlighting a gap between concern and action.