S/MIME Survey Results (Sanitized)

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Email Security Survey

Security and Usability Project
MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory

Simson L. Garfinkel, MIT CSAIL
Robert C. Miller, MIT CSAIL
Erik Nordlander, MIT
Jeffrey I. Schiller, MIT

The Survey Is Closed

Thank you for your interest. The Email Security Survey is now closed. Initial results of the survey will be posted here on September 15th

BACKGROUND

This survey is designed to determine out your attitudes about and experience with secure electronic mail. The information obtained from this survey will be used for a research project at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology working on techniques to make computers both more secure and easier to use!

Participation in this survey was completely voluntary. Respondents were allowed to decline to answer any or all of the questions. They could also decline any further participation in this research without any adverse consequences.

Survey answers were stored anonymously in a secure database. Respondent's answered were not be associated with your name or identity in any way. We did our best to preserve your privacy at all times.


Tally Results

This web page details initial results from tallying the surveys of our 470 respondents. More detailed analysis appears in our forthcoming papers, including the Submission to Financial Cryptography 2005 and the Submission to CHI 2005. We welcome comments on the analysis presented here or in the papers. Please direct email to smime-survey@mit.edu.

print-all-questions

process_question(['b3'])

 

 

Question 1: On a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is "very good" and 5 is "none," please rate your understanding of encryption and digital signatures: (b3)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
very good [1] 5.1% 23
2 11.6% 53
3 24.6% 112
4 31.4% 143
none [5] 27.3% 124
Total respondents : 455
(no response) 15

average= 3.6 stddev= 1.15 (n=910)

process_question(['b4'])

 

 

Question 2: What kinds of email have you received? Please check all that apply: (b4)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Email that was digitally-signed [1] 22.2% 101
Email that was sealed with encryption so that only I could read it. [b5 1] 8.6% 39
Email that was both signed and sealed. [b6 1] 7.0% 32
I do not think that I have received messages that were signed or sealed. [b7 1] 37.1% 169
I have not received messages that were signed or sealed. [b8 1] 20.9% 95
I'm sorry, I don't understand what you mean by "signed," "sealed" and "encrypted". [b9 1] 25.7% 117
Total respondents : 455
(no response) 15

process_question(['b11'])

 

 

Question 3: Do you send digitally-signed mail? Please check all that apply: (b11)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
I always send my email digitally-signed. [1] 2.2% 10
I sometimes send email that is digitally-signed. [b12 1] 4.2% 19
I rarely send email that is signed because it is not necessary for the kind of mail that I send. [b13 1] 19.2% 87
I usually don't because I don't care enough to sign my email. [b14 1] 9.9% 45
I don't ever send email that is digitally-signed because I don't know how. [b15 1] 44.8% 203
I'm sorry, but I don't understand what you mean by "digitally-signed." [b16 1] 24.1% 109
Other: 3.8% 17Percent
of
total
Count
Would love to, but had trouble quickly understanding PGP - too busy to learn at length [30938] 0.2% 1
Not even that I don't know how, mostly that I don't feel it necessary... [30220] 0.2% 1
I doubt any of my usual recipients would understand the significance of the signature [30468] 0.2% 1
I do not send email that is digitally-signed because I have never acquired a digital signature. I never send confidential information via email. [30879] 0.2% 1
also I have a very old os and browser [30683] 0.2% 1
Only for the fafsa. I don't know how to sign regular mail. [30710] 0.2% 1
I don't because I don't care. [30154] 0.2% 1
I have opted at some point to never use SSL for server authentication and mail transfer security, apparently to correct an issue. I need to re-examine this. [30757] 0.2% 1
I don't do it because I have not encountered the need to do so. [30870] 0.2% 1
I just don't [30625] 0.2% 1
I never send digitally signed email, but NOT because I don't know how [30642] 0.2% 1
no [30680] 0.2% 1
i never do because i don't need to [30010] 0.2% 1
don't have a need to so haven't learned how [30653] 0.2% 1
Never had the need to send these kinds of e-mails. [30391] 0.2% 1
I don't feel the need to bother [30325] 0.2% 1
Total respondents : 453
(no response) 17

process_question(['b20'])

 

 

Question 4: Do you send email that is sealed with encryption so that it can only be read by the recipient? Please check all that apply: (b20)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
I always send email that is sealed for the recipient. [1] 0.9% 4
I sometimes send email that is sealed. [b21 1] 3.5% 16
I rarely send email that is sealed because it is not necessary for the kind of mail that I send. [b22 1] 16.7% 76
I rarely send email that is sealed because I just don't care. [b23 1] 7.9% 36
I don't send email that is sealed because it is too hard to do. [b24 1] 5.7% 26
I don't send email that is sealed because I don't know how. [b25 1] 41.0% 186
I don't send email that is sealed because I am worried that the recipient won't be able to read it. [b26 1] 14.3% 65
I'm sorry, but I don't understand what you mean by "sealed" or "encrypted". [b27 1] 22.0% 100
Other: 3.3% 15Percent
of
total
Count
Don't find it necessary [30986] 0.2% 1
I never send email that is sealed because it is not necessary for the kind of mail that I send. I've never looked into how to do it, either. [30135] 0.2% 1
I ahve never had the need to send these kinds of e-mails. [30391] 0.2% 1
I don't because I don't care. [30154] 0.2% 1
I have opted at some point to never use SSL for server authentication and mail transfer security, apparently to correct an issue. I need to re-examine this. [30757] 0.2% 1
I don't send email that is sealed because I have no reason to do so. [30142] 0.2% 1
(As above in #3). [30938] 0.2% 1
I don't do it because I have not encountered the need to do so. [30870] 0.2% 1
I just don't [30625] 0.2% 1
no [30680] 0.2% 1
I don't think it's necessary to encrypt my email & frankly it's just another step & something else I don't have time for! [30220] 0.2% 1
Never send sealed email, doesn't seem necessary [30009] 0.2% 1
I don't send encrypted email, but NOT because I don't know how or because it is too hard [30642] 0.2% 1
i don't send sealed b/c i don't need to [30010] 0.2% 1
I don't send email that is sealed because I don't think that it is necessary for the kind of mail that I send and I also don't know if I have the ability to send that kind of mail. [30904] 0.2% 1
also I have a very old operating system & browser [30683] 0.2% 1
No [30332] 0.2% 1
Total respondents : 454
(no response) 16

process_question(['b31'])

 

 

Question 5: If you read that an email message was "digitally-signed," which of the following statements do you think would be true about that email message? Please check all that apply: (b31)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Only you can read it. [1] 7.8% 35
The message is more likely to be truthful. [b32 1] 11.5% 52
The message probably has the sender's name at the bottom. [b33 1] 18.8% 85
The content of the message is somehow certified by the signer. [b34 1] 48.1% 217
The message was not changed after it was signed. [b35 1] 23.9% 108
The message can only be read by the intended recipient. [b36 1] 12.4% 56
I'm sorry, but I don't understand what you mean by "digitally-signed." [b37 1] 22.6% 102
Total respondents : 451
(no response) 19

process_question(['b39'])

 

 

Question 6: Practically speaking, do you think that there is a difference between mail that is digitally-signed and mail that is sealed with encryption? (b39)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Yes [1] 54.0% 244
No [2] 6.6% 30
Don't know [3] 39.4% 178
Total respondents : 452
(no response) 18

process_question(['b40'])

 

 

Question 7: Practically speaking, do you think that there is a difference between mail that is sealed with encryption so that only you can read it, and mail that is both sealed for you and signed by the sender so that you can verify the sender's identity. (b40)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Yes [1] 50.7% 229
No [2] 8.0% 36
Don't know [3] 41.4% 187
Total respondents : 452
(no response) 18

process_question(['b41'])

 

 

Question : Do you have any comments about this page? (b41)

30009 Makes me wish I knew more about this stuff--don't know if my answers will be much help to you. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30014 Most sellers do not care about digital signatures when selling on on-line marketplaces unless they are dealing in big sums on money in the transaction, even then I still do not care. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30029 I hope this will help to stop the virues, spam, spyware and hijackers all to prevalent on the web. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30066 Confusing I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30078 Sorry, I don't understand any of the questions. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30086 I think question 5 is a trick question with no correct answer given. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30136 Most providers don't seem to offer the ability to do either of these. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30159 Most of the time I didn't know what you were talking about I'm pretty much a novice. quotable

30189 My email is usually superficial, frivolous and doesn't require secrecy in any form. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30237 You should have strated with a detailed explanation of digital signature and sealing e-mail messages. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30248 This survey is difficult. I know what the criteria are, but I don't think about it on a daily basis, so I'm not sure how it applies. For example, when I enter info on a website such as amazon, do you consider this email? I am sending from within their site, so although they know who I am...I am logged in... to me, this is not technically email. I'm confused. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30270 I have no idea what any of these questions meant. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30281 Feel the topic is somehow ''phony'' because of the way viruses are transmitted by email. I'm more concerned with attacks by future NIMDAs than I am with sending or receiving signed email. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30332 The answer options on questions 3 and 4 are poorly constructed as they lead the respondant to overly narrow ''because'' clauses. It is likely that each of the answers applies accurately only to a few people. Perhaps you are trying to concoct your results (in which case: why bother collecting actual data; just make up some numbers). very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30346 Re: Q. 7--Identity verification of sender is important, especially for transmissions of messages that are confidential or messages that involve matters personal, private, financial, or medical. I wish I knew more about digitally-signed and sealed encrypted e-mail, and I wish information were more generally available and presented in a manner that is clear to those who aren't computer scientists or engineers. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30365 If this survey is directed at people who sell goods at amazon.de, why doesn't anyone care to translate it into German? I am sure, a lot of Germans would not even understand the questions. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30370 Yes: an answer of ''5'' to question #1 should bring one to the next page. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30404 no, thank you. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30468 I use PGP, but in the several years since I have installed it I have never used it for encrypting email, or sending signed email. I have received and verified signed email from my ISP. I have never received signed email from any other source (including banks, paypal, etc, which are the organisations I would have thought would have gained most from it's use). very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30588 Get a different background for the right side of the page. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30642 Poorly written survey, so far I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30649 I would use encryption more if more of my friends did. Normally I think it's secure etc but I bet the government somehow has a back door I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30660 I guess I have some homework to do! I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30672 Please explain your terms before using them in questions. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30690 No. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30741 MIT RULES. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30757 This gave me an inkling about how much I don't know about SSL and encryption of email. Brilliant; thank you so much. ;) I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30759 This IS Greek that you're speaking in, isn't it...? I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30846 Sorry for not having the answers. Examples could have helped me understand these questions with positive responses, rather than ''I don't know.'' I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30858 Yes explain what is encryption and digitally signed so I will know. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30869 It seems I am even more technologically challenged than I previously admitted to. ; )) I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30876 I have a mild knowledge of this. Would like to learn more. I don't trust email from Amazon, ebay, paypal, microsoft to be actually from them and not spoofs. I get lots of spoofs. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30877 I have no idea what this is about! I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30997 One of the options is ''I don't understand what you mean by ''sealed''or encrypted'''' I understand ''encrypted'', but not ''sealed''! I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

31060 I vaguely understand encryption but not signed and sealed. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

process_question(['b43'])

 

 

Question 8: What kind of computer do you use to read your email? Check all that apply: (b43)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Apple Macintosh [1] 8.5% 38
Blackberry/Palm/Pocket-PC [b44 1] 2.2% 10
Linux/Unix [b45 1] 4.0% 18
Microsoft Windows [b46 1] 94.4% 423
Mobile phone/Cell phone [b47 1] 5.8% 26
Web-TV [b48 1] 0.2% 1
Other: 4.0% 18Percent
of
total
Count
Microsoft WIndows [30642] 0.2% 1
PDA [30787] 0.2% 1
maiil2web.com [30884] 0.2% 1
yahoo [30876] 0.2% 1
Total respondents : 448
(no response) 6

process_question(['b52'])

 

 

Question 9: Which computer programs do you use to read your email? Check all that apply: (b52)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
AOL [1] 17.9% 78
Apple Mail [b53 1] 2.5% 11
Eudora [b54 1] 6.9% 30
Evolution [b55 1] 0.9% 4
Lotus Notes [b56 1] 2.1% 9
Mozilla Mail [b57 1] 3.2% 14
Netscape [b58 1] 10.1% 44
Outlook [b59 1] 30.6% 133
Outlook Express [b60 1] 41.8% 182
Mutt [b61 1] 0.0% 0
Other: 23.4% 102Percent
of
total
Count
no idea, its windows [31052] 0.2% 1
incredimail [30195] 0.2% 1
M2( Opera) [30347] 0.2% 1
pegasus 0.5% 2
Opera Mail [30516] 0.2% 1
IncrediMail 0.5% 2
none -- use web mail [30940] 0.2% 1
Online email-Yahoo email [31060] 0.2% 1
IBOCS [30783] 0.2% 1
KMail 0.7% 3
OfficeTalk client [31001] 0.2% 1
rock.com [30919] 0.2% 1
Pegasus [30435] 0.2% 1
earthlink webmail, insight webmail [30870] 0.2% 1
the Bat!, Foxmail, Eprompter [30811] 0.2% 1
Earthlink Total Access [30302] 0.2% 1
auction wizard 2000 text only [30908] 0.2% 1
Everyone's Internet (home)/Groupwise (work) [31047] 0.2% 1
Primarily I useTurnPike (which comes with PGP preconfigured). I use outlook at work. [30468] 0.2% 1
T-Online, gmx (web) [30491] 0.2% 1
Neo [30168] 0.2% 1
use web sites [31009] 0.2% 1
springsips [30862] 0.2% 1
webmail 13.1% 57
mail2web.com [30884] 0.2% 1
Comcast [31015] 0.2% 1
Mail Washer [30965] 0.2% 1
Auction Wizard 2000 [30184] 0.2% 1
Centermail [30439] 0.2% 1
not sure [30137] 0.2% 1
Turnpike [31072] 0.2% 1
Pine [30910] 0.2% 1
don't know - use web-based (yahoo) [30653] 0.2% 1
Mulberry [30480] 0.2% 1
BLAZER BROWSER - TREO 600 (Sprint) [30265] 0.2% 1
|All S/MIME-capable programs 81.1% 353
Microsoft Internet Explorer [30990] 0.2% 1
yahoo,comcast,hotmail [31080] 0.2% 1
Groupwise [30939] 0.2% 1
internet explorer [31078] 0.2% 1
firefox - gmail [30935] 0.2% 1
the bat; eprompter; foxmail [30244] 0.2% 1
David [30477] 0.2% 1
webtv [30034] 0.2% 1
various webmail interfaces [30721] 0.2% 1
unix mail [30806] 0.2% 1
Total respondents : 435
(no response) 19

process_question(['b65'])

 

 

Question 10: Do you also access your email over the web? If so, please check the Web Mail systems you use: (b65)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
AOL.COM [1] 15.0% 59
Google's GMail [b66 1] 4.8% 19
HotMail [b67 1] 28.5% 112
Yahoo Mail [b68 1] 42.7% 168
Your organization's web mail [b69 1] 24.7% 97
Other: 32.8% 129Percent
of
total
Count
gmx.de [30545] 0.3% 1
GMX.de, WEB.de 0.5% 2
ISP webmail 11.5% 45
Mail2Web.com [31054] 0.3% 1
MSN HOTMAIL [30780] 0.3% 1
adelphia.net [30949] 0.3% 1
MAIL TO WEB [30875] 0.3% 1
Lycos, but not for my amazon mail [30365] 0.3% 1
ukonline.net and zoom.co.uk [31011] 0.3% 1
Fastmail.fm [30987] 0.3% 1
BT Yahoo! [31010] 0.3% 1
Findlaw [30940] 0.3% 1
Worldnet [30724] 0.3% 1
earthlink.net 0.8% 3
Go Daddy WebMail [30840] 0.3% 1
web-based SquirrelMail [30938] 0.3% 1
Earthlink's webmail [30660] 0.3% 1
ntl [31053] 0.3% 1
Infinity Internet [30316] 0.3% 1
fastmail [31081] 0.3% 1
Do not use web for email [30989] 0.3% 1
ISP's web mail [30806] 0.3% 1
Juno 0.5% 2
Road Runner [30638] 0.3% 1
compuserve.com, hypermart.net [30843] 0.3% 1
ISP [30606] 0.3% 1
GMX 1.0% 4
Personal Website [30742] 0.3% 1
Orange [30998] 0.3% 1
SpamCop mail [30468] 0.3% 1
www.web.de [30422] 0.3% 1
Lycos [30990] 0.3% 1
ynet.il [30783] 0.3% 1
ISP 1und1.com [30574] 0.3% 1
supanet/thetransformers.net [30994] 0.3% 1
modusmail [30891] 0.3% 1
Squirrelmail [30687] 0.3% 1
springsips [30862] 0.3% 1
BTYahoo Mail [30986] 0.3% 1
Cox Web Mail [30965] 0.3% 1
mail2web.com 0.8% 3
Comcast 0.8% 3
earthlink web mail [30649] 0.3% 1
orange.net [31001] 0.3% 1
snet.net [30654] 0.3% 1
My own server [30814] 0.3% 1
other [30680] 0.3% 1
provided by ISP [30642] 0.3% 1
Netscape [30865] 0.3% 1
WebTV [30034] 0.3% 1
Demon Web Mail [30985] 0.3% 1
compusrve.com [31022] 0.3% 1
earthlink and my home isp [30870] 0.3% 1
Excite.com [30816] 0.3% 1
Netzero 0.5% 2
Own server [30995] 0.3% 1
Excite 1.3% 5
OPTINLINE [30648] 0.3% 1
fasthost's [31004] 0.3% 1
earthlink 0.5% 2
roadrunner web mail [30776] 0.3% 1
surfglobal.net [30683] 0.3% 1
gmx.net 0.5% 2
Cox HSP web page, mail2web [30831] 0.3% 1
netaddress.com [31009] 0.3% 1
My college's email [30954] 0.3% 1
GMX + ''epost.de'' + ''web.de'' [30411] 0.3% 1
verison.net [30591] 0.3% 1
onebox.com [30735] 0.3% 1
My organization's web mail [30332] 0.3% 1
t-mobile wireless mail reader with a sidekick phone [30908] 0.3% 1
www.mail2web.com [30787] 0.3% 1
planet-save.com & care2.com [30845] 0.3% 1
Total respondents : 393
(no response) 61

process_question(['b73'])

 

 

Question 11: Regardless of whether you use an email program or web mail, which of the following kinds of computers do you use to read your email? Check all that apply: (b73)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
A desktop computer reserved for my own personal use [1] 88.1% 393
My own laptop [b74 1] 32.5% 145
My own laptop over a wireless connection [b75 1] 17.3% 77
A shared machine at my organization [b76 1] 21.3% 95
A public-access machine (e.g., in a library) [b77 1] 21.1% 94
Other: 7.6% 34Percent
of
total
Count
msntv [30034] 0.2% 1
PDA WIN-CE [30787] 0.2% 1
shared pc at home [31081] 0.2% 1
Friends' desktops/laptops [30987] 0.2% 1
friend's computer [30649] 0.2% 1
borrowed laptop [30078] 0.2% 1
Again, rarely I will check via a friend's. [30325] 0.2% 1
sidekick phone [30908] 0.2% 1
desktop at home [31047] 0.2% 1
desktop/wireless [30491] 0.2% 1
Family computer, but mainly used by me [30771] 0.2% 1
my own computer at work [30900] 0.2% 1
A machine at work that is not shared [30243] 0.2% 1
Computers at friend's houses [30660] 0.2% 1
Desktop shared by spouse [30318] 0.2% 1
TREO 600 (Sprnt) [30265] 0.2% 1
cyber cafe on vacations [30143] 0.2% 1
friend's & family's computers [30940] 0.2% 1
other [30680] 0.2% 1
friends, relatives computers [30248] 0.2% 1
home desktop [30729] 0.2% 1
palm [30277] 0.2% 1
cell phone [30697] 0.2% 1
my shop PC [30638] 0.2% 1
apartment complex shared [31080] 0.2% 1
Other people's personal computers [31060] 0.2% 1
sidekick [30297] 0.2% 1
friend's/relative's machine [31072] 0.2% 1
Total respondents : 446
(no response) 8

process_question(['b81'])

 

 

Question 12: Does your email client handle encryption? (b81)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Yes [1] 26.9% 120
No [2] 5.4% 24
I don't know [3] 58.5% 261
What's encryption? [4] 9.2% 41
Total respondents : 446
(no response) 8

process_question(['b82'])

 

 

Question 13: Would you change or upgrade your email program to get more protection for your email: (b82)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Yes [1] 44.9% 199
No [2] 21.0% 93
My email program already gives me adequate protection. [3] 21.0% 93
Not my decision --- my email program is decided by others. [4] 6.1% 27
I do not use an email program --- I only use web mail. [5] 7.0% 31
Total respondents : 443
(no response) 11

process_question(['b83'])

 

 

Question : Do you have any comments about this page? (b83)

30066 ''I don't know'' is my answer to #13 I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30078 Little better I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30136 For business email definitely would upgrade to get more protection. For personal not necessarily. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30137 RE: Q13 I would only change or upgrade if the cost were minimal. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30149 Windows is not a kind of computer. It is an operating system. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30159 This is sort of a waste of my time I'm pretty much a novice. quotable

30161 What's encryption? I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30222 Question 13 should read, ''If you understood the process, etc'' I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30236 I would upgrade my email for other issues, such as better spam and virus protection I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30248 Since I use both yahoo and webmail, it's hard to figure out the answer to 13. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30265 # 13 - Yes, if I did not lose other features I rely on. (Using Eudora) very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30274 cost would be a factor very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30332 On question 8, ''Microsoft Windows'' and ''Unix/Linux'' are not a kinds of computers. They are operating systems. The wording of the 5th answer option for question 10 is inconsistent with the others on the page (check the pronoun usage). very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30346 Question 8 was poorly designed. The response calls for a kind of OS, not a kind of computer. Q. 13--The upgrade would have to be free or very cheap. I believe that state-of-the-art e-mail security is something that an ISP actually owes its subscribers, and that this should be included with all e-mail programs for which the user pays. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30404 no, thank you very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30455 I would have answered 'possibly if I knew more about the benefits' to question 13. The other answers didn't apply. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30468 As mentioned above, I use TurnPike, which is supplied with PGP preconfigured for signing and encryption. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30633 Nope I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30642 Still poorly written--is this a freshman class project? I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30687 I use signing in Lotus Notes at work, but not for my personal email at home. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30846 I wish Yahoo would get better spam control & privacy. Earthlink is superb. Hotmail is getting better but has still room. I would not touch AOL. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30876 I would concider an email program on my pc if I thought it would be safe and not too expensive I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

process_question(['b85'])

 

 

Question 14: Receipts from online merchants: (b85)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 25.4% 108
Should be digitally-signed [2] 25.2% 107
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 13.2% 56
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 33.6% 143
Should never be sent by email [5] 2.6% 11
|Total for sealing 46.8% 199
}Total for signatures 58.8% 250
Total respondents : 425
(no response) 8

process_question(['b86'])

 

 

Question 15: Advertisements: (b86)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 53.6% 230
Should be digitally-signed [2] 14.0% 60
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 0.9% 4
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 2.6% 11
Should never be sent by email [5] 28.9% 124
|Total for sealing 3.5% 15
}Total for signatures 16.6% 71
Total respondents : 429
(no response) 4

process_question(['b87'])

 

 

Question 16: Personal email sent or received at work: (b87)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 35.3% 150
Should be digitally-signed [2] 16.9% 72
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 14.8% 63
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 23.1% 98
Should never be sent by email [5] 9.9% 42
|Total for sealing 37.9% 161
}Total for signatures 40.0% 170
Total respondents : 425
(no response) 8

process_question(['b88'])

 

 

Question 17: Personal email sent or received at home: (b88)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 50.7% 216
Should be digitally-signed [2] 17.8% 76
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 8.9% 38
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 22.5% 96
Should never be sent by email [5] 0.0% 0
|Total for sealing 31.5% 134
}Total for signatures 40.4% 172
Total respondents : 426
(no response) 7

process_question(['b89'])

 

 

Question 18: A bank or credit-card statement: (b89)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 1.2% 5
Should be digitally-signed [2] 2.1% 9
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 16.2% 69
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 62.7% 267
Should never be sent by email [5] 17.8% 76
|Total for sealing 78.9% 336
}Total for signatures 64.8% 276
Total respondents : 426
(no response) 7

process_question(['b90'])

 

 

Question 19: Newsletters from politicians: (b90)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 54.9% 234
Should be digitally-signed [2] 19.7% 84
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 0.5% 2
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 2.1% 9
Should never be sent by email [5] 22.8% 97
|Total for sealing 2.6% 11
}Total for signatures 21.8% 93
Total respondents : 426
(no response) 7

process_question(['b91'])

 

 

Question 20: Questions to online merchants: (b91)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 61.0% 260
Should be digitally-signed [2] 19.7% 84
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 5.4% 23
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 12.9% 55
Should never be sent by email [5] 0.9% 4
|Total for sealing 18.3% 78
}Total for signatures 32.6% 139
Total respondents : 426
(no response) 7

process_question(['b92'])

 

 

Question 21: Mail to government agencies on official business, such as filing your tax return or filing complaints with regulators: (b92)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 4.2% 18
Should be digitally-signed [2] 9.2% 39
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 9.9% 42
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 64.6% 275
Should never be sent by email [5] 12.2% 52
|Total for sealing 74.4% 317
}Total for signatures 73.7% 314
Total respondents : 426
(no response) 7

process_question(['b93'])

 

 

Question 22: Mail to political leaders voicing your opinion on a matter: (b93)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Does not need special protection [1] 52.5% 224
Should be digitally-signed [2] 27.2% 116
Should be sealed with encryption [3] 4.2% 18
Should be both signed and sealed [4] 10.3% 44
Should never be sent by email [5] 5.9% 25
|Total for sealing 14.5% 62
}Total for signatures 37.5% 160
Total respondents : 427
(no response) 6

process_question(['b94'])

 

 

Question : Do you have any comments about this page? (b94)

30010 no 20 - depends on the question, some would not need special protection very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30078 Before the survey starts, explain what the terms ''encryption, digitally-signed'' mean; I am quitting the survey bc I don't know what you're talking about. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30149 I presume that clever hackers can outwit any kind of encryption. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30159 Another waste of my time I'm pretty much a novice. quotable

30248 What do you mean by receipts? I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30270 Since I don't know what signing or encryption means this was a hard page to complete. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30274 need for personal e-mail security is very content dependent very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30281 Let us have the email equivalent of a ''do not call'' list!! & ban politicians & gov't agencies from sending & receiving email. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30343 Personal Email choices can vary from person to person. I do not choose to sign or seal. My personal Emails are not that exciting. LOL I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30346 It's important to protect confidentiality, and that both parties to any transaction or business, social, financial, or medical communication are protected, both in terms security of data and in terms of privacy. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30391 this is an interesting topic....I had not thought about the need to send/receive signed or sealed e-mail for other than tax info., etc. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30404 no, thank you. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30468 The primary use for signing and sealing in my personal opinion would be emails which contain banking information or information allowing identity theft (i.e., the bank statements mentioned above) very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30633 Nope I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30642 I simply don't trust any unsolicited email I receive and won't until computer vendors agree to STOP spam and all spurious messages I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30649 Sometimes there is an in between between should and does not need---depends on circumstances I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30660 Thanks for explaining the terms. I don't think people should send personal email from work, but if they do, I think employers have the right to read it. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30687 These are very general questions - really whether an email is signed and/or encrypted depends on its content. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30697 should have a system similar to the post offices signature receipt. ie a digital signature upon receipt with a return confirmation. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30759 Under Numbers 14 and 15 (Receipts, Advertisements), first choice, ''Does not need...'' should be ''Do not need...'' I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30771 Questions 14 & 15 have ''does'' instead of ''do'' at the beginning of the first answer choice. That grammar does not match with the plural subject. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30791 I think the answers to Questions 14 & 20 depend on the type of information being sent via e-mail. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30843 Receipts from merchants should be encrypted if they contain your credit card information, I'm pretty sure the ones I've received haven't. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30846 Encription & digital signing should have been explained/defined on P. 1. Do most have the equipment for encription as well as signing: Both sending and receiving? I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30876 i'm concerned about hackers affecting my email, coming & going I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30940 # 21 -- bad question. IRS filings cannot be equated with communications with other federal agencies. One is protected by FOIA, and the other is usually not. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

process_question(['b96'])

 

 

Question 23: Are more likely to have good return policies. (b96)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
strongly agree [1] 9.5% 39
2 19.7% 81
3 48.5% 200
4 10.7% 44
strongly disagree [5] 11.7% 48
Total respondents : 412
(no response) 8

average= 3.0 stddev= 1.07 (n=824)

process_question(['b97'])

 

 

Question 24: Are more likely to be law-abiding. (b97)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
strongly agree [1] 13.3% 55
2 27.2% 112
3 36.9% 152
4 10.0% 41
strongly disagree [5] 12.6% 52
Total respondents : 412
(no response) 8

average= 2.8 stddev= 1.17 (n=824)

process_question(['b98'])

 

 

Question 25: Are more likely to be based in the United States. (b98)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
strongly agree [1] 11.2% 46
2 14.8% 61
3 46.7% 192
4 10.0% 41
strongly disagree [5] 17.3% 71
Total respondents : 411
(no response) 9

average= 3.1 stddev= 1.18 (n=822)

process_question(['b99'])

 

 

Question 26: Is less likely to be read by others. (b99)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
strongly agree [1] 9.5% 39
2 18.0% 74
3 31.1% 128
4 20.4% 84
strongly disagree [5] 21.1% 87
Total respondents : 412
(no response) 8

average= 3.3 stddev= 1.24 (n=824)

process_question(['b100'])

 

 

Question 27: Is more likely to contain information that is truthful. (b100)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
strongly agree [1] 10.7% 44
2 22.9% 94
3 35.3% 145
4 15.1% 62
strongly disagree [5] 16.1% 66
Total respondents : 411
(no response) 9

average= 3.0 stddev= 1.20 (n=822)

process_question(['b101'])

 

 

Question 28: Before you read the paragraph above, did you know that you might lose the ability to read mail sealed with encryption after you had received it? (b101)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Yes [1] 33.1% 137
No [2] 57.7% 239
Don't Know [3] 9.2% 38
Total respondents : 414
(no response) 6

process_question(['b102'])

 

 

Question 29: Which scenario is most preferable to you? (b102)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
I do not wish to receive email that is sealed with encryption. [1] 15.0% 62
If I receive sealed email, it should be saved on my computer, sealed with the original key. [2] 8.0% 33
If I receive sealed email, it should be unsealed (decrypted) before it is saved on my computer. [3] 12.8% 53
If I receive sealed email, it should be unsealed and then saved in a secure manner, using a second key. [4] 4.3% 18
I would like to manually control how each email message is saved (sealed, unsealed, or unsealed and re-encrypted.) [5] 50.0% 207
I don't understand this question. [6] 9.9% 41
Total respondents : 414
(no response) 6

process_question(['b103'])

 

 

Question 30: Some organizations avoid the risk of lost keys by making a copy of each employee's keys and storing them in a central location. On a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is "I like it" and 5 is "I don't like it," how do you feel about this practice for work-related email? (b103)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
I like it [1] 10.1% 41
2 18.5% 75
3 36.2% 147
4 15.8% 64
I don't like it [5] 19.5% 79
Total respondents : 406
(no response) 14

average= 3.2 stddev= 1.22 (n=812)

process_question(['b104'])

 

 

Question 31: If you received a message that was digitally-signed, how would you like your email program to tell you? Pick all that apply: (b104)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
I would like to see a new line or sentence in the email header indicating that it was signed, and who signed it. [1] 43.7% 180
I would like a little sentence displayed in the email header explaining that it was signed, and who signed it. [b105 1] 19.4% 80
I would like to see a ribbon or certificate when the message is displayed in a list. [b106 1] 41.3% 170
I would like to see an image above the message when I read it. [b107 1] 18.7% 77
I would like to have a different background on the message. [b108 1] 11.4% 47
I would like to see a signature at the bottom of the message, as if it was signed in ink [b109 1] 24.0% 99
I do not care if a message was signed. [b110 1] 9.0% 37
I do not understand what is meant by a "signed email". [b111 1] 4.1% 17
Total respondents : 412
(no response) 8

process_question(['b113'])

 

 

Question 32: Now that you've been thinking about digitally-signed email, which of the following do you think are good descriptions of a digital signature: (b113)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
It's like signing your name at the bottom of a message. [1] 37.3% 152
It's like putting your fingerprint at the bottom of a message. [b114 1] 30.7% 125
It's like taking a photograph of the message. [b115 1] 8.4% 34
It's like having the message notarized. [b116 1] 27.5% 112
It's like printing the message on official stationery. [b117 1] 19.2% 78
Other: 6.1% 25Percent
of
total
Count
it's like sealing an envelope [30735] 0.2% 1
It's a waste of time. [30090] 0.2% 1
Its like sealing a document with a wax seal [31020] 0.2% 1
it's like adding numbers arbitrarily [30123] 0.2% 1
Message cannot be changed without breaking the signature [30411] 0.2% 1
It's a gimmick that might be useful in some situations but doesn't really add to the safety of email [30642] 0.2% 1
It's like placing it in a tamper-evident package [30215] 0.2% 1
...and the recipient can verify the fingerprint [30324] 0.2% 1
It is similar to an Affidavit [30343] 0.2% 1
It's like, I don't know... [30103] 0.2% 1
Digisig can be spoofed like anything else. [30870] 0.2% 1
It's another encryption that will be decrypted by those who know how [30236] 0.2% 1
counterfeiting is still possible [30274] 0.2% 1
wasting time [30680] 0.2% 1
? [30912] 0.2% 1
Unnecessary bloat [30698] 0.2% 1
It's like a wax seal. [30877] 0.2% 1
don't know [30316] 0.2% 1
It only means the sender tried to keep the mail from being tampered with. [30940] 0.2% 1
just MIS folks adding more grief to using computers [30729] 0.2% 1
Who cares [30619] 0.2% 1
Do not agree with any desc. above [30861] 0.2% 1
It's traceable, so if you say you are someone who you are not, the reader may be able to investigate to see whose computer the e-mail was sent from. [30311] 0.2% 1
It validates the intregity of the message as well as the sender [30141] 0.2% 1
Total respondents : 407
(no response) 13

process_question(['b121'])

 

 

Question : Do you have any comments about this page? (b121)

30149 There are mpre important issues for programmers to resolve. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30159 I get it just not interested I'm pretty much a novice. quotable

30161 This questionaire is very boring and putting me to sleep! I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30270 I am still sooooo lost!!!! I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30281 Fraud has little to do with digital signatures & encrytion. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30310 Most Encrption software have floppy disk save options incase your computer crashes. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30346 I think you should include a question re: potential objection to info stored on one's computer that might be needed to affix a digital signature or to seal e-mail, and the survey subject's perceptions re: security of that information. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30365 I receive my vat fromas from amazon through my Outlook Express and do not need a special key. I only need to click on a button and the message is displayed. I didn't even know there was a key I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30404 no, thank you. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30468 The United States has very poor data protection and privacy legislation, so I would not expect US email to be protected in any useful way, nor would I expect US companies to be reliable when handling the data once it has reached their systems. EU companies are at least theoretically required to provide some form of data protection. ----------- Anyone (including 'phishers') can create a new signature using free email accounts and sign a message. Unless the recipient realises they need to verify the email's address against the signed address it is meaningless. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30642 So far I don't believe that digitally signed email or encryption make any difference to the serious problems of spam, spyware and viruses, and this poorly-written questionnaire doesn't give me any hope that there will be improvements in the known future. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30660 Item 31: I don't care how you identify digitally signed messages, as long as the identifying mark can't be counterfeited. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30694 You got 1 - 5 being in the opposite order of what is customary -- 1 (I hate it); 5 (I love it). Poor interface design on your part, fellow MITers!!! very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30697 only if the card system is used. if not it will be hacked within no time. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30759 My brain hurts. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30876 interesting! I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30940 # 30 - A collection of important information should never be stockpiled in one place. However, employers have every right to keep a key to each employee's computer. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

31060 Thought I understood digitally-signed but forgot from when it was explained a couple pages back. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

process_question(['b123'])

 

 

Question 33: How would you describe yourself: (b123)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
I am a very sophisticated computer user. [1] 18.0% 75
I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. [2] 63.7% 265
I can use my computer to get my job done. [3] 11.8% 49
I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! [4] 5.5% 23
I'm pretty much a novice. [5] 1.0% 4
Total respondents : 416
(no response) 1

process_question(['b124'])

 

 

Question 34: When did you get your first email account: (b124)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
1986 1.0% 4
1987 1.9% 8
1984 1.4% 6
1985 1.4% 6
1982 0.5% 2
1983 0.5% 2
1980 0.7% 3
1981 0.7% 3
1988 2.7% 11
1989 1.9% 8
Before_1980 1.7% 7
1991 5.1% 21
1990 7.0% 29
1993 5.6% 23
1992 6.3% 26
1995 10.1% 42
1994 7.0% 29
1997 6.5% 27
1996 9.7% 40
1999 8.2% 34
1998 10.1% 42
2002 1.2% 5
2003 0.7% 3
2000 5.6% 23
2001 2.2% 9
2004 0.2% 1
Total respondents : 414
(no response) 3

process_question(['b125'])

 

 

Question 35: What's your highest level of education: (b125)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Some high school [1] 2.0% 8
Completed high school [2] 7.1% 29
Some college [3] 30.0% 123
College degree [4] 34.9% 143
Advanced degree [5] 26.1% 107
Total respondents : 410
(no response) 7

process_question(['b126'])

 

 

Question 36: When were you born? (b126)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
1941 1.0% 4
1935 0.5% 2
1946 2.5% 10
1947 1.0% 4
1962 1.7% 7
1931 0.5% 2
1985 1.0% 4
1945 1.2% 5
1986 1.0% 4
1987 0.2% 1
1948 3.9% 16
1949 1.0% 4
1968 3.2% 13
1969 1.2% 5
1980 3.4% 14
1981 2.0% 8
1942 0.7% 3
1943 0.2% 1
1966 2.5% 10
1967 2.2% 9
1960 3.7% 15
1961 3.4% 14
1944 0.7% 3
1963 1.2% 5
1984 0.7% 3
1955 4.2% 17
1954 1.0% 4
1957 3.2% 13
1956 3.2% 13
1951 4.2% 17
1950 1.7% 7
1953 3.4% 14
1952 3.2% 13
1982 1.0% 4
1939 0.2% 1
1938 0.5% 2
1959 2.0% 8
1958 2.7% 11
1983 1.7% 7
1988 0.2% 1
1979 1.5% 6
1978 1.0% 4
1977 3.2% 13
1976 2.2% 9
1975 2.0% 8
1974 0.5% 2
1973 2.0% 8
1972 2.9% 12
1971 3.4% 14
1970 2.9% 12
1964 2.0% 8
1930 0.2% 1
1965 2.2% 9
1937 0.2% 1
1940 0.2% 1
1936 0.2% 1
Average Age41
Total respondents : 407
(no response) 9

average=1962.5 stddev=12.36 (n=814)

process_question(['b127'])

 

 

Question 37: Native English Speaker: (b127)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Yes [1] 88.5% 360
No [2] 11.5% 47
Total respondents : 407
(no response) 10

process_question(['b128'])

 

 

Question 38: Gender: (b128)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Male [1] 42.6% 175
Female [2] 53.5% 220
Decline to answer [3] 3.9% 16
Total respondents : 411
(no response) 6

process_question(['b129'])

 

 

Question 39: Finally, do you have any comments about secure email, encryption, or this survey, that you would like to share with us? (b129)

30009 I'm happy that the government can monitor email, site visits, etc--don't want terrorists to have easy access to encryption!!! Ordinary people have nothing to fear, in my opinion. I can see the value of encryption for credit card statements, etc--the govt. can always subpoena those records, if necessary. Personal messages, etc, should not be encrypted. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30014 What a huge wate of time. I think Amazon has more important things to worry about than e mail. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30047 I would like to learn more about secure email and emial encryption, and I would like to have the option to use digital signatures and encryption, especially in my work as an online retail merchant. But first I have to learn how! I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30058 I am most concerned with the safety of online purchasing. Especially when a seller sucha s on Ebay directs you to a third party payment site, such as marketworks. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30070 I think that digital signing is problably more important than encryption when it comes to advertizing or work correspondence. Encryption is more important when dealing with financial transactions. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30076 It still seems too complicated for ordinary home-based computer users. More and more encryption and other safeguards seem increasingly necessary. However, the technology still has some wrinkles to iron out in making it more user-friendly. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30078 I repeat - you should have explained what they are BEFORE the survey started. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30082 Digital signatures would cut down on SPAM and the Nigerian scams. Moreover, encryption would protect teceipts, credit card card and billing statements, as well as those from banks. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30094 This survey should show a clear sample of an encrypted message and how it would be opened. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30135 I would be interested only if receiving and/or reading the email did not require an additional step (but then, my email does not contain sensitive material). I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30141 It needs to go one step further in the sense that anyone initiating or sending spam must pay a FEE to secure their email signature, and that the fee is contingent upon the amount of mail sent to eliminate the bogus spammers of the world. ALL email in this day and age should be secured, encrypted, signed, or validated. It has grown to be as massive problem out of control strong consequences attached to it for both business and individuals. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30142 Your survey did not address the fact that any email containing credit card information should be encrypted. We get emails from customers almost every day with card numbers with orders, rather than using our secure systems on our sales sites. It is more common than I would ever have believed. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30149 In the final analysis I presume that anything I input to the computer is available to a motivated searcher. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30152 I learned something new from completing this survey. Thank you I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30154 I think it's a good idea, but I'm lazy and it's too much trouble to bother with. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30156 I feel as if everything is getting too advanced for me. I like simple working programs, high speed internet and things that don't require complex steps I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30159 nope I'm pretty much a novice. quotable

30186 I would like to be able to send email that is automatically translated into other languages and recieve the same. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30200 Don't make it so complicated or fussy that it becomes cumbersome. As a seller, I always send the buyer an email that I shipped the product. It is simple and straight forward. Can you make the encryption ''automatic''? I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30217 secure email is necessary for banking or business corrispondance I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30222 I would be somewhat scared to use encryption as I often forget passcodes now and would most likely lose the ''key''. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30236 Experience shows that nothing is safe.. so why worry too much... I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30248 Real estate is important in user interface design. I want to see an icon that indicates a message is signed. Please do not take up an extra line on the screen to tell me it its signed. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30265 I have received many ''phishing'' e-mails through the years. Although I always forward them to the appropriate authorities, I worry about others who may fall prey to them. I think digital signing would be a way to help the problem, but I don't think it would end the problem. There are still far too many people who will willingly give their banking information to ''Nigerian Officials'' or other scammers. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30270 At the point I said I didn't know what encryption or digitally signed was you should have probably terminated the survey. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30280 hmmm....seems like a good idea I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30281 Email is always a lax/lazy/cheap method of communication. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30290 Security should be enforced by ISPs. Some ISPs think security regarding email in not essential and therefore. When asked about the security level, it takes them too long to first figure out what is meant and then come back with the answer that there is no security going through their server. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30301 By 2007, digitally-signed email will be the norm, not the exception....I hope! very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30324 I am interested in digital signatures and encryption, just haven't taken the time yet. I am interested in understanding how the future might unfold with relation to these, plus anonymous e-cash and online reputation databases. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30332 I think that the first couple pages of this survey are very poorly composed. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30336 stay in touch I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30342 In order for encrypted email to reach it's full potential of protecting privacy, it needs to be the status quo, not the exception. Encrypted email is ideal but right now it seems to raise a flag to government agencies, network administrators, and hackers that ''he has something to hide''. Even if the email is uncrackable, it still may make you a target. Someone sniffing the network still knows there's an encrypted message being sent and maybe even the source and destination. Because of this, the government may put you on a suspect list, your company may suspect you for misuse of company resources, and hackers may target your computer or network to see what it is you find necessary to hide. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30346 All comments have been written in previous comment blocks following the relevant question or at the bottom of the relevant page. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30365 Native English-Speaker - no, but lived in England for 5 years and am married to one. Don't expect many Germans to fill in a survey on a topic like this in English. You will probably only get the educated ones and the Computer-savvy ones. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30404 no, thank you. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30449 I know it's necessary, but it shouldn't be to complicated to handle... I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30463 Some kind of reward would have been nice ;) I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30468 All email clients need would need to be able to verify and decrypt messages before the technology becomes generally useful - at present it's all a bit meaningless outside specialist environments. Furthermore all these technologies assume that both the recipient's and sender's machines have not been penetrated in any way - at present many (most?) of the machines on the internet appear to be vunerable in one way or another, whether via an OS weakness, or insecure WiFi networks, etc. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30487 It would be fine if more people would know about encryption - and make use of it! very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30504 I liked PGP a lot, but hardly anybody seems to be using it... very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30638 It's great that better secure ways of sharing private information are explored, especially with so much internet business being conducted today. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30642 I receive digitally signed email only from a couple people, and it's mostly annoying and time-wasting, and I'm not sure those aren't using it because they don't know how to turn it off. I'm sure these applications are useful to particular businesses, but I'm not aware that they affect most computer users at all. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30660 I see that I need to know more about this subject. For example, who issues digital IDs? Can that process be corrupted? I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30673 I would like to see secure email replace fax for doing business requiring signature verification. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30690 Nope, never really thought about it. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30710 I'd like someone to make it easier, faster and more understandable to encrypt and sign mail. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30729 MIS people need to know more about PEOPLE and how they use computers. Technocrats have gone nuts. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30741 i DIDNT KNOW THAT EMAIL ON oUTLOOK WAS THAT SECURE. I MAY JUST USE THAT ONE AND DROP THE REST I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30752 All email should be signed to trace its source. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30757 I see that I have some reading to do. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30759 I think the general computer-using population -- not those geeks out there -- need to be educated on internet email security. I was totally lost through most of this survey, in spite of my college degree. Wait, that's it! My degree is in English, and you were speaking Greek! How silly of me... I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30770 It's a waste of time. The real problem lies in anonimity of the internet users. There should be two levels of access to the internet, anonimous and identity verified. Then the websites, service providers and users can have an option of limiting access to anonimous users or rejecting the messages from them. This solution is both democratic and efficient. The anonimity brings out the worst in some people and it only takes a spoon of oil tar to spoil a barrel of honey. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30774 lessons would be nice I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30787 the software to use this technology needs to be easier to use. most people are not aware of these secure technologies or how to use them (or why it matters) people could be motivated to use encrypting software, if only to keep the government from reading your email. couldn't you just email me the results of this survey, without my having to store the web location for future use ? I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30792 I think secure e-mail should only be used with sensitive documents, or it will make internet communication more complicated. Life is getting so it has too many electronic bells and whistles! Thanks for asking my opinion! I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30841 Official communication should be signed , confidential info encrypted- the rest- who the bleep cares? All I want is a system that works regularly and requires minimal maintenance and no bleeping daily security updates.Don't want things stolen? Don't store them on your hard drive or pass them through emails. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30846 These terms should have been defined at the beginning. Moreover, Amazon should start using them in mail to sellers & buyers, as well as informing people how to get the needed items and even selling them, with good explanations. Downloads (at a price) with disk copies also sent is recommended. Perhaps arrangements can be made with MSN or major individual ISPs, such as Yahoo, MSN/hotmail, AOL, Earthlink, etc. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30855 This survey has provided an opportunity for me to think about something I may not have given much thought to outside of the office. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30858 Yes, would like to know more and if this like other avenues be hacked and how likely. I can use my computer to get my job done. quotable

30869 I leave this marvelous endeavor in your capable hands. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

30876 We need better protection against hackers and spoof mail. I constantly get peolpe trying to trick me into giving them information so the can get into my paypal, ebay & amazon accounts. I don't trust any email from companies anymore. I worry too, that my pc can get a virus, worm, etc from friends' email I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30886 I don't know much about this stuff. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30891 I believe encryption and digital signatures are difficult concepts for the average user to understand. I am in the computer business (as a manager), understand SSL, but cannot honestly say I understand many of your questions as they were asked. At work we do not discuss encryption or signatures in the manner in which you addressed them. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30899 Encryption is only as useful as the ability of the sender and receiver being able to access, use, and decipher it. PGP is great unless you have users that are unable to use it without more hassles or inconvience. Secruity is an issue best left to the receiver's needs in my opinion, not the sender in 99% of internet situations. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30905 Some questions are hard to answer w/o more info, such as ''should receipts from on-line sellers be encrypted?'' -- my answer was 'not necessary' but I would rather answer ''it depends on the info contained therein'' I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30909 I played around w/pretty good privacy program a long time ago, but no one I knew used it. i would love to be able to keep snoops out. i am also concerned with privacy issues due to ''Homeland Security'', and feel that the government has misused it's power in the past, and is likely to do so in the future. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30912 It is not a known part of my ''world'' but probably should be... very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30935 it was a little confusing. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30938 Again, secure email, encryption ... it's something that many people, whether they're small businesses or not, would be interested in. But it takes a lot of concerted effort to set up properly at the beginning, then code and decode. Another obstacle is explaining, simply, to others, how to decode your email. When you add in the fact that many encryption advocates use mathematics to explain it, and the snobbiness of some power users in communicating to the unwashed masses... no wonder we're not all using it today. People, on the whole, would rather take the risk, than be talked down to or be intimidated by software or systems. It's too bad, we're simply asking to be clobbered, in our personal privacy and in our national security and economic transactions. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30940 This survey's questions were framed in a bias way. It has a very strong slant in favor of employees' use of their employers' computers for personal business. It also spacks of hysteria/paranoia. Who cares if someone reads my email to Aunt Joan elaborating on how my garden grows? I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30949 would like to be better informed I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30960 If they could make PGP work in the background for most things, it would be great. There is little need for more complex settings and setups. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30961 Simply saying ''work'' or ''personal'' email is not sufficient. It may be that 95% of personal email does not need protection but the other 5% does. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30965 Should be easier to obtain a signiture code and to use very sophisticated computer user. quotable

30998 I do not feel that secure mail is used or know about as widely as it should be. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

30999 I've never really thought about any of the above before now, infact I've never really understood them, but now I've started to think abou them I may look into them further. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

31027 Perhaps if we always signed and encrypted our mail and our programs knew which addresses were ''friends'', we wouldn't have to worry as much about spam... I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

31033 Electronic keys, like real keys, can be stolen and copied, thereby giving a false sense of extra security. For sensitive info such as banking or tax returns one's private key should be sent by post, like credit card pins - the UK Inland Revenue uses such a system. A little slow, but then who's in a rush to file their tax return! :-) I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

31060 I don't think a truely important message should be sent through emailing. I don't think it is that secure a way to convey important matters. I am comfortable using computers and the Internet. quotable

31072 Key management is so cumbersome I don't think I'll ever adopt encryption unless compelled by management or by a personal disaster. very sophisticated computer user. quotable

31076 Would reduce spam but does create problems with key loss very sophisticated computer user. quotable

31085 Interesting. the concepts of digital signing & encryption for email new to me.Glad your working to give the bad guys a harder time.Shame we need it.Would it stop spam?Need simple info & guidelines for learners like me.I get confused by computer jargon, glad this survey did not use it. I can fill out surveys, but don't ask me to configure my email! quotable

process_question(['b131'])

 

 

Question 40: May we quote your comments anonymously in our publications? Your name will not be associated with the comments in any way. (b131)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
Yes [1] 80.2% 307
No [2] 19.8% 76
Total respondents : 383
(no response) 34

process_question(['urlused'])

 

 

Question : (urlused)

Response
Percent
Response
Total
associates 80.2% 376
estores 19.8% 93
Total respondents : 469
(no response) 0