Recent research from GlobalData reveals that rising fears surrounding cybersecurity are significantly affecting online shopping habits, particularly among younger consumers in the UK. The study indicates that one in three individuals aged 16 to 34 is contemplating reducing or entirely halting their online purchases. This shift places added pressure on retailers to enhance digital trust, especially in light of recent cyberattacks, such as the breach of fashion retailer Boohoo and the ransomware attack that severely impacted Marks and Spencer (M&S) during the Easter weekend. Both incidents have heightened consumer skepticism, particularly for online-only retailers, which lack physical locations to reassure wary customers.
Emily Salter, the lead retail analyst at GlobalData, noted, “However, the convenience and choice associated with the online channel will still trump security concerns for most consumers. This is potentially more important to older shoppers who have children and greater pressures on their time, or less ability to visit stores as they age. Younger shoppers also place more emphasis on experiential shopping, so this combined with security concerns could push more consumers to stores.”
The findings from GlobalData’s July 2025 UK monthly survey indicate that a significant 69.3% of consumers express concerns regarding their personal security in the wake of recent cyber incidents, with an alarming 79.3% of individuals aged 25 to 34 reporting heightened anxiety about the issue.
Beyond the immediate implications for sales and profits—stemming from potential stock shortages or website shutdowns—media coverage of cyberattacks presents a longer-term challenge regarding consumer trust in online retail platforms.
Salter further elaborated, “Younger consumers are more concerned about retailers storing their payment details and believe that these businesses are not doing enough to safeguard their private information when shopping online. Utilizing mobile wallets and third-party payment providers like Apple Pay and PayPal allows consumers to avoid sharing their payment information directly with retailers. These payment methods are particularly favored by those under 35. To facilitate this, retailers must ensure their websites and apps support these payment options.”
