Assurant: Pandemic has fuelled consumer interest in connectivity

But this has also raised concerns around security, reveals study 

More than half of Brits (56 per cent) have cited connectivity technology as being critical during the pandemic, according to research by Assurant.

Assurant’s Connected Decade survey has revealed has driven a vast interest in consumers towards connected products, services, and support.

The study found that 80 per cent of those surveyed expect life to become more connected in the future.

However the rise in use of internet connected technologies also comes with public concern, as 84pc said they were worried about identity theft by criminal hackers.

This has led to 73pc identifying data security from their mobile network as a top priority.

More than 1,000 UK consumers were surveyed, and the main worry was internet and speed issues as 75pc of UK consumers faced tech challenges with their smartphones in the last 12 months.

The move to 5G should ensure that consumers are better connected at a top speed, but only 39pc think 5G will have a bigger benefit to society.

Assurant president of Europe Christian Formby said: “It is important that connected service and product providers work to match consumers’ evolving needs, especially as consumers place more value on connectivity.

“The pandemic has highlighted the full value of device support and protection. As consumers grow more dependent on connected living, they increasingly are placing a premium on these benefits.”