More than half of the world (52%) are concerned about falling victim to a financial phishing scam, according to a YouGov study.

The percentage increases in Asia, with Singapore (72%), Indonesia (70%) and India (69%) admitting that they are concerned about falling into the trap.

Significant proportions of respondents in Australia, Mexico, and the UAE (64% each), as well as in France (59%), also report strong apprehension around the issue.

The study added that the key driver of this anxiety appears to be the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in crafting more sophisticated and convincing phishing attacks. 

AI-enhanced scam fears are equally strong in both Asian and Western markets.  Concern is highest in Singapore and Australia (80% each), followed closely by the UK (79%). Americans (76%), Canadians (76%), Indians, and Indonesians (75%) also express worry about AI-driven phishing tactics.

When asked about who should bear the responsibility for protecting against phishing, respondents stated both individuals and banks share the responsibility equally. 74% say banks should do much more to educate customers about phishing scams, and 74% agree that individuals need to take more personal responsibility as well.

In terms of current support, just over half of respondents (53%) believe their bank provides a good level of protection against phishing threats. Additionally, 37% say they have received phishing awareness training from their bank, with most of those who did finding it either very or somewhat helpful.

50% of the respondents are open to regular updates from their banks to face this, with 13% preferring weekly communication and 30% favouring monthly updates. 19% prefer quarterly updates, while 17% would only like to be informed when a major new scam emerges.