Study: One in Ten Sees Banking Data in Public as Privacy Concerns Grow

A striking contradiction in privacy habits has emerged from a European study commissioned by Samsung. While 48% of respondents firmly believe their phone usage is a completely private matter, a significant 52% acknowledge that it is remarkably easy for others to view their screens in public spaces. The most common locations for this "shoulder surfing" are public transport, queues at checkouts, and general waiting areas.

The study highlights a particularly concerning statistic: 11% of respondents have inadvertently, or intentionally, seen others' banking details or payment-related content. This is especially relevant as SEB bank data indicates that nearly 70% of its clients manage their daily finances using a smartphone. "Today, the smartphone has become the primary tool for managing personal finances," notes Arūnas Badaras, Head of Strategy and Customer Service at SEB bank. "Clients regularly check account balances, transfer money, or invest directly on the bus or while standing in line. While incredibly convenient, it's crucial to understand that digital security begins with basic privacy in the physical environment."

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Today, the smartphone has become the primary tool for managing personal finances. Clients regularly check account balances, transfer money, or invest directly on the bus or while standing in line. While incredibly convenient, it's crucial to understand that digital security begins with basic privacy in the physical environment.

This escalating risk is already prompting changes in consumer behavior. Almost two-thirds (62%) of study participants admitted to consciously avoiding banking operations in public places, and half (49%) refrain from entering passwords when others are nearby. The visibility of screens also causes psychological discomfort, with 42% stating they would stop using their phone if they noticed someone staring at their device.

"Many users are well aware of hacker threats or data leaks, but far less often consider that sensitive information can be compromised in everyday situations," says Mindaugas Jančys, Sales Manager for Mobile Devices at Samsung Electronics Baltics in Lithuania. "Our study shows that such incidents are a mass phenomenon. Therefore, technology manufacturers must respond and offer solutions that protect privacy not only in the digital space but also in real life." Samsung is addressing this challenge with features like its "Privacy Display" on the new Galaxy S26 Ultra, which dims the screen for onlookers while maintaining a clear view for the user.

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Many users are well aware of hacker threats or data leaks, but far less often consider that sensitive information can be compromised in everyday situations. Our study shows that such incidents are a mass phenomenon. Therefore, technology manufacturers must respond and offer solutions that protect privacy not only in the digital space but also in real life.