A global survey by Kaspersky reveals a significant increase in consumer acceptance of cryptocurrency, particularly among gamers. The study indicates a growing understanding of digital currencies, with 81 percent of gamers owning cryptocurrency and 55 percent of respondents considering themselves ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ knowledgeable. The survey also highlights shifting attitudes toward using cryptocurrency for everyday transactions, with almost half of participants envisioning it as the future of shopping.
18 December 2023 – A recent global survey titled ‘The Super Sale Game: who’s the winner? A study on how we shop and pay,’ conducted by Arlington Research for Kaspersky, delves into consumer perspectives and attitudes toward cryptocurrency. The findings reveal a shifting trend as consumers, particularly gamers, are increasingly embracing digital currencies, marking a departure from earlier apprehensions.
The survey highlights a significant shift in consumer sentiment, with 81 percent of gamers indicating ownership of digital currency, positioning them at the forefront of normalizing its use. Strikingly, 55 percent of respondents identify themselves as ‘very knowledgeable’ or ‘extremely knowledgeable’ about cryptocurrency, underlining a growing understanding of this financial technology. Noteworthy is the diminishing knowledge gap between genders since 2022.
Moreover, the survey underscores that nearly half of the participants envision cryptocurrency as the future of shopping, expressing readiness to incorporate it into their daily lives, with 38 percent even open to using it for grocery purchases. Globally, 92 percent of respondents have heard about cryptocurrencies, with 50 percent demonstrating a clear understanding of the concept.
The study further uncovers a substantial increase in consumers’ confidence and knowledge about cryptocurrency, with 55 percent proudly declaring significant expertise. Notably, women have narrowed the knowledge gap, with 41 percent asserting a deep understanding, compared to 46 percent of men.
The results also shed light on the growing acceptance of crypto payments in daily transactions, with 44 percent anticipating its widespread use in online shopping. Interestingly, 40 percent express a willingness to use cryptocurrency more frequently if provided with additional opportunities. Respondents display comfort in utilizing digital currencies for both online (87%) and in-store (86%) purchases.
Gamers emerge as a particularly informed demographic, with 81 percent of them owning cryptocurrencies. Their spending patterns align with their passions, as they use digital currency for video games (65%) and related purchases. However, while cryptocurrency finds its way into everyday transactions like clothing (46%) and groceries (38%), respondents exhibit hesitancy in using it for substantial investments such as houses (24%) or cars (31%).
Addressing concerns and risks associated with cryptocurrency, 43 percent of respondents identify volatility and scams as major apprehensions. The perceived vulnerability deters 15 percent of respondents who are uncertain about adequately protecting their digital assets.
Marina Titova, Vice-President, Consumer Product Marketing at Kaspersky, notes, “Our survey results show users’ understanding of cryptocurrency has grown over the last few years,” emphasizing Kaspersky’s commitment to supporting the crypto community through enhanced security features in products like Kaspersky Premium.
