E-government study finds interest, concern from residents

Internet users have a strong interest in using government Web sites to complete transactions, but they are concerned about the privacy of those transactions, according to a recent study by the Washington, D.C.-based Council for Excellence in Government. “The New e-Government Equation: Ease, Engagement, Privacy and Protection,” found that more than 60 percent of Americans who use the Internet are interested in going online to file a change of address, respond to a jury summons, renew a driver’s license, or obtain a birth certificate or marriage license. However, nearly 45 percent of respondents believe that if they submit personal information to government Web sites, it may risk the security and privacy of their personal information.

The study, conducted by Hart-Teeter Research in February, included surveys of 1,023 adults, including 202 government Web site users and 400 government decision makers. It is the third in a series of e-government polls conducted on behalf of the Council for Excellence in Government. For the complete results, visit http://www.excelgov.org/displayContent.asp?Keyword=ppp041403.