Nearly half the population admit they’d share more information online in exchange for enhanced security against criminals and terrorist attacks. Despite negative public perceptions when it comes to sharing details online – a pioneering new report has revealed that people are prepared to share personal information if they can see the benefit for themselves.

A strong disparity was uncovered between the 82% who said they aren’t comfortable with the Government, banks or other groups using the information they’ve made available on social media – compared with our overwhelming readiness when there is a clear public security benefit. People were seven times more likely to share with border/customs authorities (37%) for example, than with our banks (5%).

A lack of awareness was also exposed with a third of people saying they did not realise that groups are monitoring and using the details that they’ve placed on the likes of Facebook and Twitter. With such information often being utilised by authorities to reduce risks of terrorism or to prevent crime, it appears our belief in what is being shared is rather contrary to the reality.

But what kind of information do the Government and law enforcement agencies make use of and should webe worrying about what they are using it for?