This document discusses attitudes towards privacy and security online in the Middle East and North Africa region. While online penetration is still relatively low in the region, growth rates are expected to be the fastest globally in coming years. However, concerns over privacy, security, skills and trust remain barriers. Promoting benefits and compelling online services can help overcome concerns. Continued efforts are needed to educate users and promote safe online practices as new technologies emerge.

1. Attitudes to Privacy and Security
Damian Radcliffe
Social Impact Department Manager
ICT and Society
Damian Radcliffe
Email: dradcliffe@ict.gov.qa
Twitter: @damianradcliffe

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MENA fastest growing online region
Online penetration still quite low, especially in North
Africa, but the MENA region will see the fastest levels
of take up in the coming years.

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And eCommerce will be part of this mix

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But, comparatively, MENA remains
a small international B2C market
North America & Asia-Pacific dominate global
share; with Asia-Pacific becoming the
predominant B2C market this year

5. So what do we know about what people do
online, and their attitudes and behaviors?
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6. ICT Penetration among Individuals
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7. Examples of tasks performed
by Internet users in Qatar
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Concerns of Internet users in Qatar

9. Many similarities to those not online
Skills: Don’t know how to do a certain task.
Knowledge: Don’t understand how the Internet benefits them.
Trust: Don’t trust the Internet for certain tasks.
Or the Internet more generally.
Fear of virus and malware.
Preferences: Face to face communication remains popular.
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In a good place to move forward

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But need to remain vigilant

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Online activity does not
necessarily equate to feeling safe online

13. An idea perhaps reflected in
what people in MENA do online
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Especially when compared
with online activities globally

15. Yet compelling propositions can
help override many user concerns
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UK data suggests concerns
relating to personal privacy,
security or fraud don’t
appear to inhibit online
behaviors.
People’s propensity to trust
a website increases if their
desire for the product or
service on offer is great

16. • Concerns re privacy and security will continue especially
as new technology is rolled out e.g. NFC, newer Apps etc.
• We need to continue to sell the benefits of being online to
both non-users and users.
• You can also play a role in helping promote being safe and
secure online.
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Future Considerations
We look forward to working with you
and making this happen.

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Thanks for listening.
Find out more on Internet usage in Qatar: www.ictqatar.qa
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