New approach needed 'to promote web to poorer consumers'

Consumers on lower incomes should be given more information to show them how the internet might benefit them financially, while potentially improving their employment prospects, it has been suggested.

According to the findings of the Broadband Minded report published by Consumer Focus, people from poorer backgrounds might be inclined to use the web to seek new job opportunities and to try to sell unwanted possessions in a bid to raise money.

The body's chief executive, Mike O'Connor, believes that there are a number of areas that ministers will need to address if those on lower incomes are to benefit from the internet.

"Only by dealing with consumers' fears and promoting the online benefits that appeal to those on low incomes will more people be encouraged to get connected," he stated.

Last month, Consumer Focus suggested that energy companies should lower people's fuel bills in order to help their financial situation.

Posted by Gemma Walker.