Filipinos are among the most confident internet users in Asia-Pacific when it comes to their online safety, but a new study from global insurtech bolttech suggests that confidence does not always translate into secure digital habits.
According to the company’s Asia-Pacific Cyber Safety Landscape 2026 report, 96% of Filipino respondents rated their online safety habits as “good” or “very good.” However, less than half—48%—consistently practiced strong cyber hygiene, creating a 48-point perception gap that is wider than the regional average of 41%.
Confidence outpaces online behavior
The study found that the disconnect between confidence and behavior is reflected in Filipinos’ experiences with cyber threats.
Among respondents in the Philippines:
- 93% reported encountering at least one scam attempt, exceeding the Asia-Pacific average of 89%.
- 57% said they had already experienced cybercrime, compared with the regional average of 39%.
- 58% believe someone in their household could become a victim of cybercrime within the next year.
According to Jemma Delacruz, general manager of bolttech Philippines, the findings suggest that awareness alone is no longer enough.
“What this shows is that the issue is no longer awareness—it’s behavior. Consumers already know cyber risks exist, but protection today still depends too heavily on individuals making the right decisions every time. What’s needed now is a shift towards support that is embedded and seamless, so people are protected as they go about their everyday digital lives.”
Password habits continue to increase risk
The report also found that risky online habits remain common despite growing awareness of cyber threats.
Nearly 70% of Filipino respondents said they reuse passwords across multiple online accounts, increasing the likelihood that a single compromised password could expose several services. The study notes that many consumers continue to overlook basic cyber hygiene practices even as online scams become more sophisticated.
Philippines reports higher exposure than much of the region
Across Asia-Pacific, the research identified clear differences between markets.
Countries in Southeast Asia—including the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia—reported higher exposure to cybercrime and scam activity than respondents in South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, and Australia.
David Black, founder and CEO of Blackbox Research – Singapore, said the findings point to a growing challenge across the region.
“Scams have become an inescapable friction in the regional digital economy. Yet even with the vast majority facing scam threats, there is a stark disconnect between public anxiety and personal action, as most consumers declare their own safety protocols are failing to keep pace.”
About the study
The Asia-Pacific Cyber Safety Landscape 2026 study surveyed 3,850 consumers across 11 Asia-Pacific markets, with 350 respondents from each market. Conducted in partnership with Blackbox Research, the survey examined online behaviors, cybercrime experiences, attitudes toward digital risk, and cyber safety practices.
To compare markets consistently, bolttech developed five cyber indexes measuring consumer experiences, online behavior, exposure to cyber threats, and perceptions of digital safety. The company also analyzed responses across age, gender, education, employment status, and socioeconomic groups to identify broader regional patterns.
In Summary
The latest bolttech research highlights a growing disconnect between confidence and online behavior among Filipino internet users. Although most respondents believe they practice safe online habits, the study found that many still reuse passwords and neglect basic cyber hygiene, resulting in greater exposure to scams and cybercrime than the regional average. The findings underscore the importance of strengthening everyday cybersecurity practices as digital threats continue to evolve.