Author: Darko Jacimovic

Identity theft is a problem that is constantly on the rise. Every year, the number of people who fall victim to identity theft crime increases, as identity theft statistics reveal.

As if that isn’t bad enough, dealing with the aftermath of identity theft can be incredibly time-consuming and frustrating. So, how can we increase our safety as more sensitive data is transferred online and saved on the cloud?

The first step is getting informed about the dangers and the most common methods of identity theft. That’s why we’ll provide you with some alarming facts about this growing problem.

Let’s start.

Facts on Identity Theft in 2020

As every FBI identity theft report would confirm, the past three years have challenged government organizations battling identity theft and fraud. Companies, organizations, medical facilities, and many others moved their communication with clients primarily online.

As a result, the quantity of sensitive information transferred that way increased dramatically. Combined with the Covid Stimulus program that pumped trillions of dollars into the economy and personal accounts, it became a very enticing situation for cybercriminals.

1. Total scams and fraud losses climbed to $56 billion in 2020.

(Javelin)

Identity theft stats show that out of that number, around $43 billion in losses can be attributed to identity fraud scams. So, the cost of identity theft should not be underestimated.

By staying informed and being aware of the latest scams, you can help keep your hard-earned money out of the hands of criminals.

2. Traditional identity fraud brought $13 billion in losses in 2020, stats on identity theft show.

(Javelin)

Even though the overall losses skyrocketed, the impact of traditional identity fraud has decreased by 21% from 2019.

So, fraudsters are slowly moving away from old methods and devising better ways to persuade victims to give them the required information willingly.

3. Identity theft reports concerning government benefits went up an astounding 2,920% in 2020.

(AARP)

The increase in this identity theft percentage is mainly due to the exploitation of the federal Covid-19 relief program. Data says that scammers most commonly claim to represent government agencies.

In fact, they ask for personal and financial information, pretending to help people collect benefits or navigate the bureaucracy, which leads to financial identity fraud.

4. US identity theft statistics reveal that between 2019 and 2020, 47% of consumers in the US experienced ID theft.

(Aite Group)

A recent identity theft research showed that out of those, 37% suffered application fraud (for example, someone tried to use their identity to open an account), and 38% experienced an attempted or successful account takeover (i.e., unauthorized access to a consumer’s existing account).

5. FTC identity theft statistics show there were 4.9 million identity theft and fraud reports in 2020.

(Insurance Information Institute)

There was a 44% increase in 2020 from 3.4 million identity thefts in 2019. Mostly, it was due to the 113% of identity theft complaint increase.

Furthermore, almost a third of these complaints involved government benefits. The federal stimulus payments were the most popular Covid-19 scam.

Identity Theft Facts From 2021 and 2022

Even though government institutions are putting extra effort into battling identity theft and fraud, the latest data doesn’t look promising. With the economy recovering, there are more opportunities for criminals to exploit. So, let’s take a look at the latest data.

6. In 2021, there were 1,701 identity theft reports per 100,000 residents in DC, according to identity theft statistics by state.

(Insurance Information Institute)

The total number of identity theft reports in 2021 came to 12,004 in DC. Georgia came second in the rate of identity theft reports per capita, with 1,421 per 100,000 people.

At the same time, the state with the lowest number of identity theft reports per capita was Puerto Rico, with 260 reports per 100,000 residents.

7. The Dark Web prices for hacked social media accounts dropped between 10% and 76% in 2021.

(Privacy Affairs)

Social media identity theft statistics show that the prices for stolen accounts are dropping. For example, social media scammers earn from $75 to $65 for a hacked Facebook account.

Moreover, Instagram went down from $55 to $45, and Twitter from $49 to $35. The price of Gmail profiles significantly went down—from $156 to $80.

8. Cloned American Express with PIN had a 40% higher price than VISA or MasterCard on the black market in 2021.

(Privacy Affairs)

Cloned credit cards are available for purchase on the Dark Web, and American Express cards are the most expensive. In other words, American Express is the priciest card on the Dark Web, at $35. As for Mastercard and VISA, each of them costs $25.

9. Statistics on identity theft show that the US identity theft insurance market is worth $262.9 million.

(IBISWorld)

This represents an increase of 5.6% from the previous year when the market was worth $249 million. Identity theft insurance helps protect consumers if their personal information is stolen and used to commit fraud.

This type of insurance can reimburse customers for expenses related to identity theft, such as lost wages and legal fees. It can also provide access to services that can help customers recover their stolen identities.

10. Child identity theft statistics reveal that over 22,833 identity theft victims were younger than 19 in 2021.

(Comparitech)

This reflects a 63% increase over the 14,000 reported in 2019. Unfortunately, the problem is only getting worse, and everyone needs to be aware of the risks. While child identity theft may not be as common as adult identity theft, it can be just as damaging.

11. Victims of identity theft lost $52 billion in 2021, as financial identity theft statistics uncover.

(AARP)

So, you should shred any documents that contain sensitive information and avoid giving out personal information online, which may lead to identity theft on the Internet.

Also, monitor your credit report for fraud. Keep in mind that according to credit card fraud statistics, the US accounted for 30% of the global card fraud loss in 2019.

12. In 2021, your Walmart account with a credit card attached was worth $14 on the Dark Web.

(PBS)

Overall, the prices of personal information on the Dark Web fluctuate depending on the demand, and the price for Walmart accounts increased by $4 from 2020. As more and more transactions are conducted online, your Walmart account has become a hot commodity.

Online Identity Theft Statistics

Although cybertheft and data breaches don’t happen as often as identity thefts, they are more significant—the number of cybercrime victims in each can be from hundreds of thousands to even millions. If you are a victim, check where and how to file a police report for identity theft.

Identity theft is one of the most common cybercrimes.

13. Data breaches increased by 38% in the second quarter of 2021.

(ITRC)

Apart from the identity theft statistics mentioned above, this sharp increase also highlights the need for businesses to take action in securing their data.

For example, companies should ensure that all their data is encrypted. This will make it much more difficult for hackers to access and steal sensitive information.

Hacking statistics find that every 39 seconds, a hacker attack occurs. So, companies should regularly test their security systems to identify potential vulnerabilities and install the best antivirus software.

Antivirus statistics note that in the US, 45 million households rely on antivirus software for personal use.

14. 40% of US businesses will make investing in fraud detection their top priority, as per corporate fraud statistics.

(Experian)

However, that is less than in Europe or South America. For instance, 52% of German and 66% of Brazilian companies plan to prioritize fraud detection.

The US percentages are baffling, considering what Internet privacy statistics disclose—44% of US customers say they are worried about their online privacy and safety, compared to only 23% in Europe.

15. The nonprofit’s K-12 Cyber Incident Map tracked 166 school online scams in 2021.

(K12 Dive)

In comparison, that was down by 59% from 2020. In fact, in a record-breaking year for school cyber incidents, 408 public incidents were reported.

More specifically, this decrease can be attributed to schools’ increased awareness of and investment in cybersecurity measures, as cybersecurity stats show.

As facts about identity theft confirm, school cyber incidents often lead to identity theft.

16. Cybersecurity breaches in the healthcare industry affected a record-breaking 45 million individuals in 2021.

(Fierce Healthcare)

This is up from 34 million in 2020. These breaches expose patients’ protected health information (PHI) and can have a devastating impact on their lives.

In addition to the emotional distress caused by having one’s personal information exposed, patients may suffer financial damages if their PHI is used to commit fraud or identity theft, as identity fraud statistics imply.

17. Data breaches in the healthcare industry increased by 58% in 2020.

(Verizon)

More and more medical facilities create web portals to interact with clients and patients, and consequently, more sensitive information is transferred online than ever. Unfortunately, that makes them a tempting target for cybercriminals.

Medical identity theft stats show that 3.5 million people were the victims of the largest 2021 healthcare data breach.

Moreover, 77% of the cyberattacks against healthcare in 2020 were conducted to get identity information; in 67% of them, attackers also stole medical information. Around 18% of these attacks aimed to acquire medical credentials.

Interesting Stats About Identity Theft

18. There was a 225% increase in tax-related and employment fraud in the first three quarters of 2020.

(Experian, Federal Trade Commission)

After an 80% drop from 677,000 to 137,000 between 2015 to 2019, the numbers rose again in 2020. By the end of the third quarter of 2020, there were 92,620 reports of tax-related identity theft.

All the criminals need to make a false tax report to collect the refund is your full name, birth date, and SSN and incriminate you.

19. Tax identity theft statistics note that the IRS saved $26 billion by preventing confirmed identity theft tax returns.

(IRS, Federal Trade Commission)

The IRS constantly increases its efforts to battle tax-related identity thefts. Besides the savings between 2015 and 2019, its financial sector associates recovered another $1.7 billion in fraudulent tax refunds.

20. According to the Social Security Administration, 75% of illegal immigrants use fake or stolen numbers.

(The Center Square)

So, illegal immigrants and identity theft statistics note that three-quarters of illegal immigrants in the United States use fraudulent or stolen Social Security numbers to obtain work.

This widespread practice can have many negative consequences for illegal immigrants and Americans.

For illegal immigrants, using fake credentials, like a Social Security number, can make it difficult to open a bank account, obtain credit, or apply for government benefits. Furthermore, they may be deported if caught using a fraudulent number.

For American citizens, the widespread Social Security fraud can result in higher taxes and decreased benefits from the Social Security Administration. In addition, ID theft statistics suggest it can create identity theft risks for those with their numbers stolen.

21. The number of mail theft reports increased by 600% between 2017 and 2020.

(NBC)

So, there was a significant rise in mail thefts from around 25,000 in 2017 to about 177,000 in the first three quarters of 2020.

Moreover, robbers have given up on robbing individual mailboxes on the streets and are stealing directly from the post offices in bulk and sometimes even in broad daylight.

Mail theft can also lead to identity theft. When personal information such as credit card numbers or Social Security numbers is stolen, it can be used to open new accounts or make fraudulent charges. Mail identity theft statistics point out this crime is very common.

22. Over the period of 83 days in mid-2020, there were 24 cases of thieves targeting carriers or their victims.

(NBC)

More specifically, the Postal Police incident reports for 83 days from March to September 2020 showed 24 cases of thieves attempting to steal mail from carriers and their vehicles. On average, this was one in every three and a half days.

Identity Theft Statistics Worldwide

In general, the US is not the only one affected by this surge in identity theft trends.

As more companies, organizations, and government institutions in the world are going digital to accommodate more clients, it opens new opportunities for digital theft.

23. In the first eight months of 2022, there were 10,051 reports of identity theft in Australia, as ID theft stats show.

(ACCC)

In comparison, things were somewhat different in the same period of the previous year. In fact, the number of reported identity theft cases was higher —15,764.

There are many possible explanations for this decrease. One possibility is that people have become more aware of the importance of protecting their personal information.

Another possibility is that identity thieves have become more sophisticated in their methods, making it harder for victims to detect fraud.

24. 1% of EU residents had financial losses due to ID theft, fraudulent messages, or false website redirection in 2020.

(Eurostat)

Eurostat published some identity theft victim statistics in 2020, revealing that 26% of EU citizens had received fraudulent messages. Fraudsters tried to obtain information, such as usernames and passwords for email accounts and login information for e-banking.

Online banking statistics find that banking Trojans attacked 625,364 PC users in 2020. Furthermore, 13% of EU residents were redirected to false websites where they were asked to disclose personal information.

25. In 2021, fraud attempt instances increased by 218% in Canada’s financial sector.

(TransUnion)

Transunion recently published its findings on fraud attempts against companies in the financial sector.

Through the last quarter of 2020 and the first quarter of 2021, global fraud attempts increased by 149%. Additionally, business identity theft statistics confirm that the most common type was using a stolen identity.

26. The number of UK identity theft and fraud rates increased by 11% in the first half of 2021.

(Cifas)

The National Fraud Database UK reports that the number of cases again rose after declining in 2020 due to reduced economic activity. In 2021, it reached 180,000 cases in the first six months. 

Even though the economy is recovering, criminals have much more activity and opportunities. The same pattern was observed after the 2008 world financial crisis.

27. Identity theft is a serious problem in India, with 45% of adults having experienced it, identity theft statistics point out.

(India Today)

This figure is only set to rise, as 6 in 10 adults worry about their identity being stolen. In addition, a cybercrime report notes that a lot of Indians are victims of cybercrime and face cybercrime attacks, such as phishing, spear-phishing, malware, and similar.

Remember what phishing statistics and malware statistics uncover—phishing attacks in the US more than doubled in 2020, and new malware is discovered every 0.2 seconds. Mobile malware statistics show a rise, too.

While many people (65%) feel that they are well-protected against identity theft, the truth is that a lot have no idea what to do if it occurs to them.

Identity Theft Statistics—The Bottom Line

Identity theft is difficult to detect as victims have no idea it has been stolen, so it’s not reported on time. It’s not only financial identity theft, but the consequences also damage our health, business, social status, and more.

Although there is no such thing as complete protection, we can still make ourselves a less easy mark. Regular credit and background checks on suspicious individuals and being careful about where you give away your personal data are great first steps.

Another step is acquiring one of the finest ID Theft Protection services and contacting some cybersecurity companies. Knowing the most common ways of online identity theft can help ID theft prevention.

People Also Ask

• AARP
• AARP
• ACCC
• Aite Group
• Cifas
• Comparitech
• Eurostat
• Experian
• Experian
• Federal Trade Commission
• Fierce Healthcare
• IBISWorld
• India Today
• Insurance Information Institute
• IRS
• ITRC
• Javelin
• K12 Dive
• NBC
• PBS
• Privacy Affairs
• The Center Square
• TransUnion
• Verizon

Cybercrimes are on a constant rise worldwide, and the latest cybersecurity statistics confirm this trend.

Not so long ago, major domestic and international banks and big organizations were the main targets of cybercriminals. Still, data on the current state of cybersecurity indicates that hackers also attack small businesses.

Recent unauthorized access to Capcom, one of the many companies affected by cyberattacks, has compromised 350,000 personal user data. In fact, this is just one of the many cybersecurity incidents that cause businesses to bleed millions of dollars each time they suffer an attack.

Do you want to know if your business is safe from hackers?

We’ve listed the newest statistics about cyberattacks, data breaches, and security trends that will help you stay updated.

Shocking Cybersecurity Stats During the Pandemic

1. The reported cyber crimes increased by approximately 300% during the pandemic in 2020.

(IMG Grupo)

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center released a report that showed a substantial increase in cyber attacks during the pandemic. To aggravate this, Google also shared a report showing a significant rise in pandemic-related phishing attacks over the platform.

Furthermore, according to the FBI’s statistics on cybersecurity, the sudden spike in cyber-related risks could be traced to domestic and international hackers who wanted to take advantage of the increasing web activities brought about by the pandemic.

2. The impact of remote work on the average cost of a data breach reached $137,000.

(Capita)

The collective impact of the pandemic reached the digital space, particularly the data security sphere. Now that most businesses have established an online presence and remote work is run-of-the-mill, will the current global crises affect data breaches?

So, these remote work cybersecurity statistics expose that 70% of respondents agree remote work will raise the cost of a data breach.

3. 52% of legal and compliance leaders have been worried about third-party risks since the onset of the pandemic.

(Gartner)

A pandemic is an unprecedented event. No people or organizations were ready when COVID-19 hit the world. That said, the transition from in-office setting to remote work happened hastily as a rapid response to the situation.

Remote employees adjusted quickly, but organizations didn’t have enough time to deploy stronger network security solutions to protect their network systems. This raised worries from legal and compliance leaders.

Interesting Small Business Cybersecurity Statistics

4. 28% of data breaches in 2020 involved small businesses.

(Small Business Trends)

In the past, cybercriminals wouldn’t attack small businesses because there wasn’t so much to steal. But times have changed. Nowadays, hackers don’t care if their victims are small-sized businesses with fewer assets.

In other words, every organization faces cybersecurity risks. This proves cybercriminals are becoming less selective with their victims.

5. In 2019, 25% of small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) filed for bankruptcy after a cybersecurity breach.

(ESET)

Moreover, statistics on hacking note that 10% completely stopped doing business.

So, businesses can take many steps to reduce their risk of a security breach, including implementing strong security measures, training employees in security best practices, and regularly monitoring their systems for signs of activity.

6. Recorded suspicious logins reached 52,589 across small business websites throughout September 2020.

(Glow)

So, if you own a WordPress site, you better check your site’s activity.

Glow, a website maintenance app, released some cybersecurity diversity statistics, detailing that approximately 1,421 suspicious login attempts were initiated by cybercriminals per WordPress site throughout September 2020.

These latest facts may serve as a reminder for small businesses to fortify their network and information systems. Keep in mind that investing in website maintenance and security tools or software can lessen the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.

Surprising Statistics on Cyberattacks

7. Hackers attack every 39 seconds, around 2,200 times daily.

(MageData)

Hackers use various methods to gain access to information, including guessing passwords, exploiting vulnerabilities, and installing malware. While some hackers are motivated by political or ideological goals, others are simply after the monetary value of the data they obtain.

8. An Internet security report states that 53% of cyberattacks go unnoticed.

(ITGovernanceUSA)

In this age of technological awareness, many business owners believe that paying for security tools will suffice to deflect cyberattacks.

However, despite deploying several security products, over half of attachments remained undetected. This is only one of the many cybersecurity breach statistics that confirm organizations need to revamp their existing systems.

9. As many as 91% of cyberattacks don’t generate security alerts.

(ITGovernanceUSA)

According to the 2020 Mandiant Security Effectiveness Report, only 9% of attacks triggered security alerts. In addition, it was uncovered that most security tools weren’t optimized.

Some security settings were on their default configurations, while others lacked updating and force controls testing features. As a result, security tools failed to send alerts during an incident.

10. According to cybersecurity statistics, 94% of malware is sent via email, and 45% comes in the form of Office doc files.

(Verizon)

The same facts expose the hidden dangers of using emails. Believe it or not, sent emails will hit an all-time high of 361.6 billion daily by 2024. So, it’s no surprise that cybercriminals want to overexploit these tools for malware.

Today, emails are staples in businesses. For some organizations, it’s the main channel of communication. So, the next time you receive an email, scrutinize the content before clicking any link and perhaps invest in the best email encryption software to protect your data.

Data Breach & Cybersecurity Trends

11. With 1,489 breached accounts per 100 people, Russia has the highest number of breached accounts per capita.

(Property Casualty 360)

Since 2004, Russia has accounted for 14.6% of all global data breaches. This is nearly eight times higher than the average of 191 breached accounts per 100 people.

While the reasons are not entirely clear, it is likely due to a combination of factors, including weak security practices, rampant cybercrime, and a lack of government regulation. Let’s not forget that hacking statistics point out that the fastest hackers are also Russians.

12. On average, it takes 287 days to detect and contain a data breach, as Internet security statistics find.

(Venture Beat)

More specifically, organizations need 212 days to detect a breach and 75 days to contain it.

Whenever a breach happens, time becomes critical. Every passing second means losing money to the business. Unfortunately, the average time from identifying a breach to containing it hasn’t changed much from the previous year.

13. In 2020, the worldwide average data breach cost was $3.86 million.

(Embroker)

This is only marginally lower than the 2019 figure of $3.92 million. However, despite this small decrease, the data breach cost remains high, and organizations need to be aware of the risks they face.

14. Cybercrime facts indicate that 86% of online breaches are financially motivated.

(Maryville University)

So, the majority of Internet breaches are motivated by money. More specifically, hackers phish information from vulnerable people to obtain sellable information on the dark web. Others penetrate the organization’s data systems and demand a ransom.

15. External email services comprise 51% of accidental data breaches.

(Help Net Security)

Out of the different technologies used in organizations today, external email services, such as Yahoo! and Gmail, have been the causal factors of unexpected data breaches.

The top five technologies that usually lead to accidental breaches include corporate email (46%), file-sharing services (40%), collaboration tools (38%), and SMS or messaging apps (35%).

Hottest Cybersecurity Industry Trends

16. The healthcare sector ranked first for having the highest number of breaches in 2020, accounting for 12.3%.

(Scirp)

According to cybersecurity in healthcare, the sector has long been a target for cyberattacks, and as data breach statistics show, 2020 was no different.

This is not surprising, given the large amount of sensitive data collected and stored by healthcare organizations. Patient records, which can include Social Security numbers, addresses, and dates of birth, are a particularly valuable target for criminals.

In comparison, cyberattack statistics find two data breaches per day in healthcare in 2021.

17. The 3,932 reported breaches in 2020 exposed more than 37 billion records, cyberattack statistics by year show.

(Risk Based Security)

A 2020 data breach report by Risk Based Security notes a 48% decline in the number of breaches from 2019 to 2020.

However, the total number of exposed records was 141% higher. This figure perfectly demonstrates the importance of cybersecurity.

Hacking data shows that the strategies recently used in hacking were more refined, and despite a 48% decrease in breaches, the number of information exposed rose more than two times.

18. According to cyberthreat statistics, malware/ransomware (48%) was the biggest risk to organizations in 2019.

(Help Net Security)

Statistics on ransomware reveal that WannaCry is the biggest ransomware attack in history. If that attack hadn’t been stopped, who knows what damage it would have caused to Microsoft. Fortunately, the company was able to release patches immediately.

In addition, other risks to IT include external attacks from cybercriminals (45%), accidental data breaches by employees (40%), and spear phishing (39%).

19. The accidental exposure of data on the web compromised a whopping 13.5 billion records.

(Security Magazine)

It turns out organizations should be more attentive to accidental cybercrime trends. For example, the business is at risk when employees unintentionally forget to encrypt sensitive data via file sharing and email.

Needless to say, these situations are avoidable if companies implement strict Internet security protocols and educate employees about Internet security.

20. Businesses can save an average of $1.12 million if they can contain a breach in less than 200 days.

(Blumira)

That’s why digital security facts suggest that businesses need to invest in high-quality security tools and systems; they help detect threats, allowing enterprises to take prompt actions as soon as the signal for a breach is received. Subsequently, the financial loss is mitigated.

21. In 2019, 45% of global breaches featured hacking.

(Statista)

Cybercriminals use different tactics to victimize people. Some even use psychological manipulation to deceive people into giving information.

Although it comprised a huge pile of cybersafety incidents, a cybersecurity report found that errors and social attacks were the second most prevalent cause of breaches (22%). Moreover, malware attacks accounted for 17% of cyberattacks worldwide.

22. Cyberattacks on financial institutions exposed an average of 352,771 sensitive files in 2020, as data theft statistics show.

(Polymer)

In 2020, the average financial services employee had access to about 11 million files, while large organizations’ employees could access 20 million files.

In addition, cyberwarfare statistics find that 40% of global cyber espionage happens in the finance, information, and healthcare sectors.

It is clear that cybercriminals are getting better with their tactics and methods. Therefore, this calls for financial businesses to reinforce their intranet, antivirus software, malware identifier, and other security solutions.

23. Computer crime statistics note that cybercrime will hit $10.5 trillion in annual profit by 2025.

(Cybersecurity Ventures)

The emerging trends in e-commerce, remote work, e-courses, and digital business will change people’s behavior about doing business.

Along with the convenience of online commerce comes the risk of cyberattacks and a higher cybercrime rate, cyberattack data affirms.

As people voluntarily give out information to more online businesses, the possibility of exposing sensitive data also rises. Cybercrime statistics worldwide show that cybercrime is projected to be one of the largest economies in the world next year.

Must-Know Facts About Cybersecurity Jobs

24. The global cybersecurity workforce gap hit 2.72 million in 2021.

(ISC)

According to the cybersecurity numbers, the gap in the cybersecurity workforce persists despite 700,000 professionals who joined the digital security workforce last year.

This shortage can be attributed to many factors, including the fact that the field is constantly evolving and there is a lack of qualified workers.

25. 59% of organizations are at moderate or extreme cyberthreat due to the workforce gap.

(University of San Diego)

In a survey conducted by the University of San Diego, more than half of respondents declared that their organizations are at risk of cyberattacks because of the lack of personnel.

These cybersecurity trends on the scarcity of cybersecurity talents are causing unease. On the flip side, cybersecurity data reveals that because of the unmet demand for jobs, people who aim to build a career in the cybersecurity sector will have the best options at work.

26. 46% of cybersecurity professionals are contacted by recruiters weekly, no matter if they’re looking for a job.

(University of San Diego)

Issues aside, people with a cybersecurity background don’t have to worry about getting a job. According to cybersecurity trends, there are multiple job openings but not enough people to take over.

That’s why recruiters typically reach out to individuals with IT or computer skills to offer them jobs. Because of this, there’s currently a 0% unemployment rate in this sector.

27. The Asia-Pacific region has the highest shortage of cybersecurity workers at 2.14 million.

(University of San Diego)

In line with these cybersecurity statistics, the Asia-Pacific region must bridge the widest cybersecurity workers’ gap. While increasing the number of employees seems to be the best course of action to fill the skills gap, there are also other ways.

Some examples are conducting cybersecurity training for new hires, opening avenues for professional development within the company, and investing in cyber technologies.

Cybersecurity Statistics From 2021

28. In 2021, the average ransomware payment soared to $570,000—a 518% increase from the previous year.

(GRC World Forums)

Ransomware attacks have become increasingly common as criminals want to take advantage of the growing dependence on technology.

So, companies feel the pinch as ransomware attacks become more sophisticated and costly.

29. There were 4,145 publicly disclosed data breaches in 2021—a 5% decrease from 2020.

(Flashpoint)

However, information security statistics reveal that this still accounts for over 22 billion records being exposed, making it the second highest year for the amount of confidential data compromised. Most of these breaches (2,932) took place in the United States.

30. The cost of data theft has risen from $3.86 million in 2020 to $4.24 million in 2021.

(Cyber Talk)

Info on data breaches per year implies that this is the highest cost in the 17 years that the institute has been tracking data breaches.

Data breaches have become increasingly common in recent years, as hackers have become more sophisticated and businesses rely more on digital data.

31. Cybersecurity insurance trends confirm that US cyber insurance pricing increased approximately 96% in 2021.

(Marsh)

Cybersecurity reports note this is primarily due to the increasing number of data breaches and cyberattacks carried out in recent years.

While the cost of cyber insurance is still relatively low compared to other types of insurance, it is likely to continue to rise as the frequency and severity of cyberattacks increase.

Companies looking to purchase cyber insurance should be prepared to pay significantly higher rates than they did in the past.

Cybersecurity Facts: Conclusion

Businesses should seriously take cybersecurity to cement the trust of their clients. As threats affect more people daily, it’s high time organizations invest in their information security systems and believe in the cybersecurity impact.

In fact, according to cyberprofessionals, there are only two types of online businesses: one that’s been hacked and the other waiting to be hacked. Therefore, cybersecurity investments should not be overlooked.

All in all, these spending trends in cybersecurity are on the rise, and these stats only prove that the Internet is becoming a precarious place.

With the vast gap in the cybersecurity workforce and incidents moving upward, is cybercrime an online epidemic waiting to happen? We don’t know for sure. But it’s certain that businesses and Internet users should work hand-in-hand to secure their information on the web.

People Also Ask

• Blumira
• Capita
• Cybersecurity Ventures
• Cyber Talk
• Embroker
• ESET
• Flashpoint
• Gartner
• Glow
• GRC World Forums
• Help Net Security
• IMG Grupo
• ISC
• ITGovernanceUSA
• MageData
• Marsh
• Maryville University
• Polymer
• Property Casualty 360
• Risk Based Security
• Scirp
• Security Magazine
• Small Business Trends
• Statista
• University of San Diego
• Venture Beat
• Verizon

Gun violence is a problem plaguing our society. Every day, people are injured and killed by guns. Below, you will see the latest gun violence statistics covering many aspects concerning firearm-related deaths globally and in the US.

Gun violence refers to death or injury caused by firearms and includes assault with a deadly weapon, suicide, homicide, attempted suicide, and non-criminal violence such as shooting accidents. In recent years, gun violence has become an epidemic in the United States.

Now, we will look into the numbers.

How Many Guns Are in the US?

Everyone is aware of the gun culture in America. In fact, the country has more firearms than any other in the world. When looking into the number of guns in the US, we can see that there are 120.5 firearms for every 100 residents. That means there are more guns than people in the US.

Of course, not everyone owns a gun, but the high number still reflects the popularity of firearms in the country. Hunting is a popular pastime in many parts of the US, and many people believe in their right to bear arms.

Gun Ownership Statistics

1. Over 875 million firearms exist in the world.

(iARMS)

So, we’re not surprised that more and more people fall victim to gun violence worldwide. Out of that number, only 59% are legal. That means people illegally own over 516 million guns.

2. 42% of households in the US owned one or more firearms in 2021, facts on US gun ownership by year show.

(Statista)

The percentage of firearm-owning households in the US has hovered around the 37% to 47% mark since 1972.

This reflects the cultural significance and symbolic power gun ownership has in the US, which goes well beyond the apparent pros and cons of owning firearms.

3. Firearm stats reveal that the Canadian province of Ontario registered 473,765 firearms in 2019.

(Statista)

This puts Canada’s gun ownership rate on par with other Western European countries, which is much lower than that of the United States. Gun violence in Canada is also less common.

The primary reasons for gun ownership in Canada are hunting, and target shooting; people don’t typically keep guns for self-defense as the legality of doing so is highly restricted; thus, in Canada, gun violence isn’t a highly concerning issue.

4. Gun statistics show you can buy a HiPoint pistol for under $200.

(Backfire)

Then again, a reliable pistol for concealed carry may cost $500. A duty pistol typically costs over $590, and a good competition pistol is usually more than $1000. Ultimately, the pistol price depends on the features and quality the buyer is looking for.

5. Black people represent 24% of gun owners in the United States.

(The Hill)

In comparison, 36% of gun owners are White, and 15% are Hispanic. These numbers show that White people are more likely to own guns than any other group in the country.

However, these gun violence statistics by race show that gun ownership is not limited to any race or ethnicity but is instead widespread across all groups.

6. On March 31, 2021, 565,929 people in the UK held a firearm or shotgun certificate.

(Gov.uk)

This represents a decrease of 3% (-20,422) compared to the previous year. The UK is not the only country to see a reduction in gun ownership; in fact, many developed nations have seen a decline in recent years.

There are several possible explanations for the not-so-common UK gun violence and ownership.

First, stricter gun laws have made it more difficult for people to acquire firearms. Second, gun violence statistics note that the rise of violent crime in many countries has led people to reconsider whether they need a gun.

Finally, the spread of gun violence through media and entertainment has made many people uneasy about owning a firearm.

7. 45% of surveyed male Americans owned a gun in 2020.

(Gallup)

It’s expected that men are more likely to own a gun than women, so gun violence statistics by gender do not come as a surprise.

A recent Gallup survey shows that 32% of US adults personally possess a firearm. Out of this, women account for only 19%.

8. Fewer than 20% of gun owners are members of the NRA.

(OPB)

An often overlooked point on the NRA is that its impact on the gun debate has vastly been overstated. Its spending on lobbying hasn’t been that high lately, either.

Instead of battling it out with the NRA, a more effective way forward for the increasing number of people in favor of gun control might be to focus on gun education and convince the public to back anti-gun legislation with votes.

American Gun Statistics

A bit of trivia—do you know that more Americans have died in firearm-related incidents since 1968 than in wars since 1775?

Believe it or not, that’s true.

9. 52% of Americans think gun laws in America should be stricter.

(BBC)

Moreover, 35% of respondents said that gun laws should remain the same, while 11% said they should be less strict. The survey results indicate that a majority of Americans would like to see stricter regulations on firearms.

Proponents of stricter gun laws argue that it would make it more difficult for dangerous people to obtain firearms. On the other hand, opponents of stricter gun laws say it would infringe on the rights of law-abiding citizens.

10. Youth gun violence statistics show that suicide rates in children and adolescents who live with guns are four times higher.

(SRCD)

Over the past decade, there’s been a rise in teenage gun violence, especially in children and adolescent suicides, with an increase of over 80%.

Out of those deaths, around 40% were due to firearms. However, it’s important to note that having a gun in the house does not automatically mean there will be suicide.

However, it creates increased risk factors and opportunities, leading to these terrifying teenage gun violence statistics.

Parents who choose to have guns in the house should take extra care to store them safely and out of reach and open up communication about suicide and mental health with their children.

11. Over 4.6 million kids aged 18 and under in the US live in households with loaded and unlocked firearms.

(American Academy of Pediatrics)

The presence of a readily available household gun sets the stage for possible tragedy. In addition, adolescents are particularly susceptible to accidental shootings due to specific behavioral characteristics like impulsivity and curiosity.

In 2020, at least 125 toddlers under five unintentionally shot themselves or someone else.

12. About 4.5 million women have been threatened with a gun by an intimate partner, gun violence statistics show.

(EFSGV)

Moreover, gun violence research finds that almost 1 million women have been shot at or shot by an intimate partner. In the United States, intimate partner violence is a severe problem.

These numbers are alarmingly high, highlighting the need for more effective interventions to protect women from gun violence.

13. Concealed carry permit laws can increase violent crimes by 13–15%.

(EveryTown)

States that have legislated concealed carry or limiting law enforcement discretion in delivering carry permits have seen an up to 15% rise in the rates of violent crimes.

For instance, Arizona revoked its concealed carry permit requirement in 2019, letting people over 21 publicly carry concealed guns with no permits.

Gun violence statistics disclose this resulted in an 11% rise in the gun injuries and deaths rate. Moreover, there’s a 24% rise in the chances that an individual involved in a violent crime gets shot and killed.

14. Women have five times higher chances of being murdered by their intimate partner if they have access to a gun.

(EFSGV)

Intimate partner homicides most commonly involve guns. In fact, firearms deaths statistics confirm that over 50% of all such murders are committed using guns.

While other weapons may cause more severe injuries, guns are much more likely to be fatal.

15. 63% of surveyed gun owners in the US have a firearm for protection or personal safety.

(Pew Research Center)

Apart from gun use for self-defense, people cited other reasons, too. In fact, 40% of gun owners use them for hunting, while 11% own firearms to indulge in shooting as a sport or a nonspecific recreation.

16. Gun control statistics uncover that over 75% of first and second graders know where their parents keep firearms.

(Brady United)

That’s one of the alarming statistics parents must pay attention to. Moreover, 36% of 5–14 year-olds have also admitted to handling a weapon without their parents’ knowledge.

In addition, more than 80% of guns used by young people in suicide attempts are kept in the home of a victim, friend, or relative.

Gun death statistics show that many accidental gun deaths could be prevented by adding a gun safe or two devices: a child-proof safety lock and a loading indicator.

17. America’s handgun sales grew by nearly 65% in October 2020 compared to the same month in 2019.

(Statista)

There was a significant growth in handgun sales during the pandemic—about 1 million handguns were sold in October 2020. This is a staggering 65% increase.

However, handgun sales reached a high-time record of over 2.5 million in March 2020. Additionally, people purchase pistol cleaning equipment to ensure their handguns don’t jam upon use in self-defense. 

If you are looking for a non-lethal self-defense weapon, maybe you should consider buying a stun gun or a TASER.

US Gun Violence Facts

Gun control and crime rate statistics studies have found that better gun control is one of the solutions to high crime rates and deaths. However, the gun industry and the lobbyists disagree.

18. Gun violence in America has a significant economic impact, costing the nation an estimated $557 billion annually.

(EveryTown)

Believe it or not, this figure is five times the budget for the Department of Education that funds preschool through college for millions of Americans. Gun violence imposes costs in many ways, including medical expenses, lost productivity, and criminal justice costs.

19. Mass shooting stats find that only 16 mass shootings in the US from 1982 to July 2022 involved illegally obtained guns.

(Statista)

At the same time, 87 mass shootings involved legally obtained guns. Registrations and background checks go so far only if the widespread circulation of firearms makes it easy for disturbing elements to source them quickly through other means. Finding a weapon is the least of their problems if someone is determined to commit such an atrocious act.

20. If all mental illnesses in the US were to be cured overnight, violent crime in the country would fall by only 4%.

(Dubois County Free Press)

Gun violence statistics show there is a slim association between mental health and gun violence.

For instance, Duke University professor Jeffrey Swanson’s research shows that mental illnesses (i.e., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression) only have a marginal effect on gun incidents.

21. Policies restricting abusers from accessing firearms have been proven to reduce intimate partner homicides by 25%.

(EFSGV)

So, this is one of the gun violence statistics that show such policies save lives; they help reduce violence in a relationship, making it less likely that a murder will occur.

The good news is that there’s also a domestic violence protective order—a court-issued order to protect victims of abuse.

In addition, domestic violence statistics have shown that more than a third of women worldwide experience domestic abuse.

22. According to statistics on mass shootings, the highest number of US mass shootings (12) was recorded in 2018.

(Statista) 

In the following year, this number dropped to 10 mass shootings. Furthermore, 2020 saw only two mass shootings, while that number jumped to six in 2021.

23. 316 people are shot in America every day.

(AP News) 

Out of that number, 106 die, while 210 survive. This leaves 106 families grieving the loss of a loved one, while 210 people must grapple with the physical and emotional aftermath of being shot.

24. Child gun violence statistics reveal that 7,957 children and teens are shot annually.

(Brady United)

A high mortality rate in children is among the most egregious examples of gun violence. Data shows that, out of the above number, 1,663 die from gun violence. Meanwhile, most of these denote a brighter side: 6,294 children and teens manage to survive gunshot injuries.

25. 19 US states and the District of Columbia have passed red flag gun laws.

(Pew Trusts)

Red flag laws—measures to keep guns away from people who show signs of volatility—were in place in only five states before the Parkland mass shooting.

School shooting statistics confirm that school shootings and trends in gun violence in the US typically have little effect on gun politics in the country. Still, the impact of the Parkland incident has been different.

26. With a GFI (gun-friendly index) of 122.90, Alaska is the best state for responsible gun owners.

(AZ Defenders)

In Alaska, there’s no waiting period to own a gun. Moreover, universal background checks and restrictions on assault weapons or magazine capacity are also not practiced.

The statistics further reveal Arizona in the second spot, with a GFI of 119.26. On the contrary, New York is the worst state for responsible gun owners.

27. Gun violence statistics show there were 3,561 shooting incidents in Chicago in 2021.

(NBC Chicago)

This is just over 300 more than in 2020 and 1,415 more than in 2019. In fact, Chicago ended 2021 with 797 homicides, which is 25 more than the previous year. This is the biggest number of homicides since 1996 and 299 more than in 2019.

28. An assault rifle is a less commonly used homicide weapon, accounting for 2.6% of all homicides.

(Criminal Attorney Columbus)

Handguns are the most commonly used weapon, accounting for 45.7% of all homicides. However, firearms death statistics note that firearms (type unknown) are the second most common type of weapon, accounting for 23.9% of all homicides.

Other weapons, such as knives or cutting instruments, are also relatively common, accounting for 10.6% of all homicides. In some cases, homicide victims are killed with hands or feet, accounting for 4.3% of all cases.

On the other hand, shotguns account for only 1.4% of all homicides.

29. California recorded the highest number of school shootings between 1970 and 2020, amounting to 180.

(Statista)

Regarding the state with the highest incidence of gun violence in schools, statistics reveal that California is pulling ahead.

Since 1970, this state has recorded a total of 180 school shootings, as mass shootings by state facts confirm. Then again, one of the safest cities in the US is in California—Anaheim.

Texas occupies the second spot, having 149 shootings, and the third place belongs to Florida, with 103 shootings from 1970 to 2020.

30. Gun violence statistics find that 249 school shootings occurred in the US in 2021—the highest number in 50 years.

(Statista) 

The United States has a long history of gun violence in schools. In 2021, 9 were active shooter incidents, and 240 were non-active shooter incidents. Moreover, 2018 recorded the highest number of active shooter incidents (11) in the last 50 years.

In 2019, 32 people were injured, and 8 were murdered in the US school shootings.

Facts About Gun Violence in the US Compared to Other Countries

31. The rate of firearm homicide in the US is 23 times higher than in Australia.

(Health Data)

As per a gun violence report, firearm homicides are far more common in the United States than in other developed countries. For example, when US age-adjusted firearm homicide rates are compared to those in France, they are 13 times greater.

When looked at on a broader level, the US has 22 times the rate of firearm homicide in the European Union. These statistics make it clear there is a serious problem with gun violence in America that needs to be addressed.

32. Death by firearm statistics note that the US ranked 2^nd in the number of gun-related deaths worldwide in 2019.

(World Population Review)

Regarding gun deaths by country, Brazil topped the list with the most gun violence deaths, accounting for 49,436 Brazilian citizens. The United States is next, with 37,038 gun deaths that year.

The third place in worldwide gun violence belonged to Venezuela, where 28,515 gun-related deaths occurred, according to worldwide gun violence stats.

33. The US accounts for just 4% of the world’s population but 35% of global firearm suicides.

(Giffords)

Several factors contribute to this disturbing statistic and the causes of gun violence.

First, guns are simply more effective at killing than other methods. They are also easily accessible; there are more guns than people in the United States, and many households have multiple firearms.

Additionally, gun culture is deeply ingrained in American society, and many people grow up with a false sense of security about guns. The truth is guns are dangerous weapons that should be treated with caution and respect.

34. America’s gun suicide rate is eight times higher than many European and other developed countries.

(EU Dispatch)

These gun death statistics don’t come as a surprise, with widespread access to firearms in the US. Perhaps more surprising is that despite this well-documented link between guns and suicide, little has been done to prevent it.

35. US mass shootings were responsible for 73% of all incidents occurring in developed countries between 1998–2019.

(EurekAlert)

During this time, 62% of all 1,318 fatalities from mass shootings also occurred in the United States, according to FBI mass shooting statistics. These numbers are staggering and highlight the need for better gun control measures in the United States.

Mass shootings are a tragic reality in our country, and it is clear that something needs to be done to prevent them.

36. There are 120.5 civilian firearms per 100 persons in the US—the only country with more firearms than people.

(Bloomberg)

So, it’s no wonder gun crimes in the US are so common.

India has almost 1.4 billion people and is second with 71.1 million civilian-owned firearms. Both of these countries have something in common: they all have a history of violence and/or conflict. It seems that guns and humans go hand-in-hand, unfortunately.

37. Gun death statistics show that the number of children killed by guns in the US is 36.5 times higher compared to Austria.

(The Conversation)

Gun violence in the United States is on the rise, and child accidental death statistics show American children are far more likely to be killed by guns than their counterparts in developed countries. Unfortunately, unless something changes, this alarming trend will continue in the future.

38. In 2020, firearms killed 4,357 people up to the age of 19 in the US.

(KFF)

On the other hand, only five young people were killed in Japan that year. While firearm deaths were the leading cause of death in America for this age group, it was the 15th leading cause of death in Japan.

Gun Death Statistics

39. On average, 10 gun homicides happen on college campuses yearly.

(Every Town Research)

College campus safety statistics suggest that policies allowing firearms in universities increase the incidence of gun violence on college campuses. If there are about 20 million students attending universities or colleges, can you imagine how many lives are at risk?

40. In 2019, 486 Americans died from unintentional firearm injuries.

(EFSVG)

When looking at firearm deaths per year, we can say that the statistic above means unintentional firearm injuries made up about 1.2% of all gun deaths in 2019, as FBI statistics on gun deaths also confirm.

While that may seem like a small percentage, it’s important to remember that each death is a tragedy and preventable.

Several steps can be taken to reduce the likelihood of accidental shooting, such as proper gun safety training and storage and keeping guns out of the hands of children and adolescents. This is where a suitable handgun safe comes in handy to prevent firearms mishandling.

41. Young Black men and teens accounted for over 37% of US firearm homicide victims in 2019.

(USA Today)

These gun violence statistics by race and age are especially troubling, given that Black men and boys ages 15 to 34 make up just 2% of the nation’s population.

Let’s not forget what hate crime statistics have shown—nearly half of hate crimes in 2020 were driven by anti-Black or African-American bias.

To reduce the number of gun-related deaths in the Black community, it is essential to address these underlying issues. Only then can we hope to see a reduction in the number of young lives lost to gun violence.

42. The ratio of young Americans killed by firearms to those killed by cancer is almost 2:1.

(KFF) 

As the gun death statistics mentioned earlier, 4,357 young Americans up to 19 years old died from firearms in 2020, making it the leading cause of death in the US. At the same time, cancer was the fifth leading cause of death for this age group, with 1,767 deaths in 2020.

43. In 2020, 124 people died from gun violence per day in the US.

(Hub)

While many people die each day for various reasons, such as illnesses, accidents, and natural causes, it’s pretty heartbreaking to know that gun violence causes a significant number of deaths.

Unfortunately, CDC gun death stats confirm that overall firearm-related deaths increased by 15% in 2020.

44. Only a dozen USA states require permits to purchase a gun.

(DW)

This suggests that most states do not support gun control. Out of these 12 states, only three require purchase permits for rifles and gunshots. These states are California, Hawaii, and Connecticut.

45. 19,379 gun violence deaths were reported in the US in 2020, which was the highest number in more than 20 years.

(Business Insider)

Gun violence statistics affirm that the number of deaths from gun violence reached a high record last year amidst the pandemic crisis. Moreover, 2020 saw the highest number of firearms deaths in over two decades.

This does not include the number of suicide deaths by firearms amounting to 24,090, as shown by gun crime statistics.

46. In 2020, over 4,300 young Americans died of firearm-related injuries.

(BBC)

So, gun violence was the leading cause of death for children in the United States. In many cases, these deaths could have been prevented if gun safety precautions were taken or guns were not readily available.

47. Gun death statistics reveal there are 30,382 deaths from gun violence in September 2022.

(Gun Violence Archive)

Out of them, 13,948 are homicides, and 16,434 are suicides. This epidemic is affecting people of all ages, with victims ranging from young children to senior citizens. In the wake of these tragedies, it is essential to remember that gun violence is preventable.

48. America has already seen at least 309 mass shootings in 2022.

(NPR)

These disturbing gun violence statistics show no signs of abating, and the failure of lawmakers to take action is inexcusable.

The vast majority of mass shootings are done with legally-obtained firearms, and the ease with which these weapons can be obtained is a major contributing factor to the problem. In addition, the toxic mix of racism, misogyny, and hatred that seems to be prevalent in our society is also a driving force behind these shootings.

Until we address these underlying issues, we will continue to see an alarming number of mass shootings in America.

49. Mississippi has the highest rate of gun deaths in the United States, with 28.6 per 100,000 residents.

(CNN)

So, it is also the state with the most shootings. Gun violence statistics by state note that Louisiana and Wyoming are among the top five states for gun deaths and have weak gun safety laws.

The high rates of gun death in these states are likely due to the lax gun laws, which makes it easy for people to get their hands on guns without any safety training or background checks.

50. 11 US presidents have been victims of attempted assassinations with firearms, and 4 died of bullet wounds.

(World Population Review)

The weapons used to kill four US presidents, Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield, William McKinley, and John Kennedy, were three handguns and a rifle.

Gun Violence Statistics: Conclusion

Gun violence is a problem in the United States, and it’s time for lawmakers to take action. While many factors contribute to gun violence, access to guns is a significant contributor. We need common-sense gun reform to make our communities safer.

Despite a functioning US criminal justice system and most socio-economic metrics being considered the best in the world, the gun-related suicide and homicide rate is exceptionally high. Even the number of gang-related deaths has increased.

We hope you find this data helpful. As a result, you have a clearer understanding of the problem’s severity and develop a more informed viewpoint on a critical and often divisive political issue.

People Also Ask

• American Academy of Pediatrics
• AP News 
• AZ Defenders
• Backfire
• BBC
• BBC
• Bloomberg
• Brady United
• Brady United
• Business Insider
• CNN
• Criminal Attorney Columbus
• Dubois County Free Press
• DW
• EFSGV
• EFSVG
• EU Dispatch
• EurekAlert
• EveryTown
• EveryTown
• Every Town Research
• Gallup
• Giffords
• Gov.uk
• Gun Violence Archive
• Health Data
• Hub
• iARMS
• KFF
• NBC Chicago
• NPR
• Pew Research Center
• Pew Trusts
• SRCD
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• The Conversation
• The Hill
• USA Today
• World Population Review
• World Population Review

Even if you’re a climate change denier, the fact that the world needs to move away from fossil fuels and toward clean energy examples shouldn’t be a matter of debate for you.

Conventional energy sources like coal and oil are in limited supply, and over-dependence on them can soon lead to major crises.

Looking at the facts about renewable energy is both eye-opening and inspiring. In fact, it’s impressive to see how far we’ve come in terms of utilizing clean energy, and it’s exciting to think about what the future holds.

Thankfully, there seems to be widespread agreement worldwide on this matter. These statistics are meant to give readers a broad understanding of global renewable energy trends while also answering some common questions.

What Are Renewable Resources?

Renewable resources are those that can be replenished or replaced over time, according to the renewable energy source definition.

This includes renewable energy forms like solar and wind energy that can be harnessed indefinitely and water and forests that can regrow if appropriately managed.

On the other hand, non-renewable energy resources, such as fossil fuels, exist in finite quantities and will eventually be depleted, as non-renewable energy facts reveal.

In general, the main difference between renewable and nonrenewable energy and the primary advantage of renewable resources is that they’re sustainable—they can continue to be used without damaging the environment.

This is in contrast to non-renewable resources that often have harmful environmental impacts (e.g., fracking for natural gas). In addition, renewable resources tend to be less expensive than non-renewables once the infrastructure is in place.

For these reasons, it’s important to develop and use renewable resources whenever possible.

Facts on Renewable Energy From 2020 Onwards

1. Hydropower accounts for 71% of all renewable electricity in the world.

(TRVST, Hydro Review)

So, nearly three-quarters of the total renewable electricity generated today depends on our water resources. Namely, the entire hydroelectric energy generation in the world in 2020 equaled 1,211 GW.

2. Demand for renewable energy grew in 2020 when all other energy sources declined.

(IEA)

Despite the decline in global energy demand by 3.8% in the first quarter of 2020 due to the coronavirus, renewables had a demand growth.

This is indeed one of the best renewable energy facts from 2020 since it was the first time in 50 years that renewables took over coal as a leading power source.

3. 6 of the world’s top 10 solar energy companies are based in China.

(ElectronicsAndYou)

More specifically, those companies are Trina Solar, Jinko Solar, JA Solar, Yingli Green, SFCE, and ReneSola. Along with driving global investments in renewable energy infrastructure, China is also among the leading countries in renewable energy manufacturing.

4. In 2021, 837 gigawatts of cumulative wind power capacity were installed worldwide.

(Statista)

According to global renewable energy statistics, 780 gigawatts were onshore wind power. Interestingly, more and more nations worldwide are moving away from fossil fuels, resulting in the significant growth of green energy wind power over the past decade.

5. In 2021, renewable capacity grew by 9.1%.

(Renewables Now, IRENA)

In comparison, the renewable energy industry had a strong year in 2020, with capacity growing by 10.3%. However, this growth rate slowed slightly in 2021.

Despite this slowdown, renewables are still expanding at a healthy pace. As a result, they are poised to play an increasingly important role in the global energy mix, according to facts about renewable energy.

6. World biofuel production decreased by 11.6% in 2020.

(Biodiesel Magazine)

Before the pandemic, the International Energy Agency predicted that global biofuel production would grow by 3% in 2020.

However, in its latest report, the agency confirmed a drastic fall of almost 11.6%. As a result, the annual production of biofuel worldwide has plummeted for the first time in two decades.

7. Net electricity capacity expansion from renewables in 2021 reached 81%.

(IRENA)

Further data show that wind and solar accounted for 88% of new renewables. The renewable energy data is in, and the results are clear—it is on the rise, renewable resources facts confirm. This is good news for the environment and the fight against climate change.

8. In 2021, China generated a total of 2.48 trillion kWh of electricity from renewable energy sources.

(English.gov)

This accounted for 29.8% of the country’s total electricity consumption. So, China is the world’s largest producer of renewable energy, and its commitment to increasing its use of renewables is helping drive down costs and increase adoption worldwide.

9. 9% of variable renewables were generated in the first quarter of 2020.

(IEA)

Solar PV and wind power are different forms of variable renewables, alternative energy facts imply.

This figure represents a 1% growth from 2019. However, the implementation of lockdown measures caused the demand for electricity to fall while solar PV and wind levels remained the same.

10. 15.6 gigawatts of geothermal energy were produced worldwide in 2021.

(Statista)

Just like wind and solar, geothermal power has incredible potential as an alternate power source. As of 2021, the global geothermal power industry has been led by the US, Indonesia, and the Philippines in terms of power capacity installed.

These three countries have a massive amount of undeveloped geothermal potential and are also home to some of the largest plants in the world.

11. Renewable energy job creation statistics note that 12 million jobs were created worldwide in the renewable energy sector in 2020.

(Reuters)

The renewable energy sector continues to grow, promising to provide the world with cleaner and cost-effective energy sources. But aside from that, there are also greater socio-economic advantages of renewable energy through employment.

12. Solar power contributed 50% of all new electric capacity added to the grid in Q1 of 2022.

(SEIA)

This is a significant increase from the 46% contribution in 2021 and the 43% contribution in 2020. Moreover, the SEIA attributes this growth to the continued decline in solar costs and the increasing interest in clean, renewable energy among utilities and corporate buyers.

13. Facts about renewable energy show that Asia had a 60% share of new renewable capacity installation in 2021.

(IRENA)

The region increased its renewable capacity by 154.7 GW and now hit 1.46 TW. This accounted for 48% of the world’s total. The increase in Asia’s renewable capacity is due to the region’s strong commitment to clean energy.

14. The US is the world’s top biofuel producer, with 1,141.75 thousand barrels per day in 2019.

(Knoema)

This is due to the country’s large agricultural sector and abundant natural resources. Other countries in the top 5 were Brazil, Indonesia, China, and Germany. In addition, biofuel production has increased in recent years due to the increasing popularity of renewable energy.

15. China vs. US renewable energy statistics note that China added 136 GW of renewables in 2020 while the US added 29 GW.

(IRENA)

Regarding renewable energy by country, China and the US were the giant expansion markets in 2020. Topping the list was China, where wind-generated most of it, accounting for 72 GW, while 49 GW came from solar. Its runner-up, the US, had 15 GW of solar and around 14 GW of wind energy.

16. CO2 emissions related to global energy plummeted by 5.8% in 2020.

(IEA)

This decline is the largest annual decrease rate since World War II, non-renewable energy facts show. Indeed, a good thing COVID-19 did was reduce the amount of carbon emitted from energy generation.

17. The US’s primary energy consumption increased by 4% in 2021.

(EIA)

This is the largest annual increase on record and is primarily attributable to a gradual return to pre-pandemic activity levels. In fact, the increase in 2021 followed a 7% decrease in 2020, which was the largest annual decrease on record.

18. Renewables are expected to provide almost 30% of the global electricity demand by 2023.

(MAN)

More specifically, this increase is driven by falling costs and government policies supporting renewable energy growth.

Renewable energy vs. fossil fuels statistics point out that in many parts of the world, renewable energy is now cheaper than fossil fuels, and this trend is only expected to continue.

As more countries move away from coal and other polluting energy sources, renewables are expected to play an increasingly important role in meeting the world’s electricity needs.

19. 47% of the UK’s electricity was powered by wind and solar in Q1 2020.

(The Guardian)

The UK’s use of renewable energy has made a new record after its wind and solar power generated almost half of the electricity in the first quarter of 2020. Furthermore, this surpassed the previous quarter’s record (39%) set in 2019.

20. Facts on renewable energy uncover that the global renewable energy market reached $881.7 billion in 2020.

(Allied Market Research)

The increase in the use of renewable energy has already positively impacted the environment, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping slow climate change effects.

So, with continued investment and commitment, the global renewable energy market has the potential to transform the way we power our world.

21. 67% of Denmark’s electricity comes from sources of sustainable energy.

(Trade)

Denmark has been investing in renewable energy for over three decades, and this commitment has paid off in the form of a clean and sustainable energy system. For instance, wind energy contributes 46.8% to the energy supply, and biomass contributes 11.2%.

The United States Renewable Energy Statistics

22. A 1% growth in total consumption of renewable energy broke a more than a century-old record.

(IEA)

For the first time in over 130 years, the total renewable energy consumption in the US surpassed coal. In fact, in 2019, the total coal consumption in the country fell for the sixth consecutive year and to its lowest level.

In the same year, total renewable energy consumption grew for the fourth straight year, reaching a record-high 11.5 quadrillion Btu.

23. About 20% of the total electricity generation in the US came from renewables in 2021.

(IEA)

In addition, facts about renewable resources affirm that sources of renewable energy accounted for about 12.2% of total US energy consumption in 2021.

The United States has made significant progress in recent years in reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and increasing its use of renewable energy sources.

24. Washington State gets 76.6% of its electricity from hydroelectric power.

(Choose Energy)

In comparison, Idaho gets 62.9% of its electricity from hydroelectric power. According to US renewable energy statistics, other top states using hydroelectric generation for electricity are Oregon, Vermont, and Montana.

Water is constantly recycled through the hydrologic cycle—a never-ending energy source.

In addition, hydroelectric power does not produce any air pollution or greenhouse gasses. Building and operating a hydroelectric renewable power plant is also relatively inexpensive.

For these reasons, hydroelectric power is a major source of electricity in many states, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.

25. Georgia produced about 10% of the nation’s total electricity generation in 2020—facts about renewable energy show.

(IEA)

Since 2010, Georgia’s electricity generation from biomass has grown by over 80%. Moreover, 16 different facilities produced about 400 megawatts of capacity.

In 2020, Georgia’s contribution to total electricity generation from biomass reached 10%, most of which came from wood and wood-derived fuels.

26. 73.2% of Iowa’s electricity generation came from wind power in 2021.

(Choose Energy)

Some interesting facts about renewable energy confirm that Iowa has the largest share of the 13 states, with over 20% of electricity generation from wind power.

Iowa’s wind turbines also help create jobs and spur economic development. With continued renewable energy growth in the US, Iowa is poised to maintain its position as a national leader in wind power.

27. In 2021, California had the highest solar energy percentage of generated electricity at 40.5%.

(Choose Energy)

Solar energy statistics show that California installed 23 GW of solar capacity in 2019.

Nevada came in second at 33%, and Vermont third at 31%. Generally speaking, solar power is a clean and renewable energy source that is becoming increasingly affordable as technology advances.

Hydroelectric Renewable Energy Facts

28. China continues to be the world’s leader in hydropower generation, with more than 390 GW of total installed capacity.

(IHA)

This was followed by Brazil (109 GW), the United States of America (102 GW), and Canada (82 GW). India, Russia, and Japan also had a significant hydropower presence, each with 50 GW or more OF installed capacity.

China’s large lead in installed hydropower capacity is likely due to its abundance of waterways and large population, both of which create a great demand for energy.

29. By 2027, the global hydropower generation market will be valued at $317.8 billion, as per renewable energy facts.

(Open PR)

The hydropower generation market is expected to grow significantly in the next few years.

This growth is driven by several factors, including the increasing availability of freshwater resources, the need for cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, and the declining hydropower renewable energy technology cost.

30. Denmark has the highest electricity prices in Europe—€0.344 per kWh.

(Eurostat)

Regarding electricity prices, Denmark is at the top of the list in Europe. It is followed by Germany, where the cost is €0.323 per kWh, Belgium with €0.299 per kWh, and Ireland with €0.297 per kWh.

If you are interested in electricity prices by state, we have a separate article on that.

Solar Renewable Energy Stats

31. The largest solar power generating capacity in 2020 came from China—more than 48 GW of PV capacity installed.

(Investopedia)

China has managed to increase its total solar capacity to 253,6 GW. This growth is partly due to the Chinese government’s commitment to renewable energy that has recently implemented many policies and subsidies designed to encourage solar development.

32. Solar energy led capacity expansion with 19% (133 GW) in 2021.

(IRENA)

Solar and wind energy were the top two renewable resources for capacity expansion in 2021. Furthermore, these forms of renewable energy are expected to continue to dominate renewable capacity expansion in the future.

Together, they account for 88% of all net renewable additions in 2021.

33. Renewable energy statistics find that an additional solar PV capacity of 580 GW is expected to come on board by 2023.

(Inverse)

This represents 4% of the world’s energy needs. More specifically, the largest increase is expected from China, followed by other countries in the APAC region.

The relatively lower intensity of sunlight in Europe and North America is partly responsible for the less substantial increase in solar PV power generation in these regions.

34. In 2019, concentrated solar power (CSP) had a global installed capacity of 6,451 MW.

(HELIOSCSP)

The main reason for this growth is new solar thermal projects built up worldwide. In fact, 381.6 MW of solar thermal projects were newly built worldwide in 2019.

Renewable energy stats show that these new projects have helped increase the market’s overall capacity by 6.29%.

35. CSP capacity will grow by 87% between 2018 and 2023.

(MDPI)

The deployment of CSP plants is at the market introduction and expansion stage. The numbers above represent an increase of 4.3 gigawatts. Moreover, it’s a 32% increase compared to the previous five-year period of 2012–2017.

36. The global solar thermal market is projected to reach 767.73 GW by 2026.

(Fortune Business Insights)

Then again, it stood at 496.15 GW in 2018. All in all, the increasing adoption of solar thermal technology in power generation, heating, cooling, and desalination is the primary factor driving the market’s growth.

Stats on Renewable Energy—Wind Energy

37. China is the world leader in wind energy, with a total installed capacity of 342 GW by 2021.

(Power Technology)

This puts China ahead of any other country, with over one-quarter of the world’s wind power capacity coming from the country. Moreover, China’s largest onshore wind farm is located in Gansu Province, built out of the Gobi Desert.

The project has a peak capacity of 10GW, which is a long way ahead of its closest rival. However, several other large projects in the pipeline could soon rival it.

38. Europe is expected to install 116 GW of new wind farms between 2022 and 2026, as per renewable resources facts.

(Wind Europe)

Around 81% of these new capacity additions will be onshore wind. The report notes that this growth will be driven by continued ambition from European countries to meet their climate goals and the falling cost of wind energy.

39. Wind power generation met 100% of the demand in Denmark in 2019.

(Renewables Now)

Moreover, the strong winds enhanced production from wind turbines and helped supply 130% of the country’s electricity demand with this form of renewable energy. This broke an earlier record in June of the same year when it reached up to 60% of the country’s needs.

40. Global wind power capacity grew to about 115 GW in 2020, according to global renewable energy statistics.

(SP Global)

As more countries commit to decarbonizing their energy systems, the installed capacity of wind power will likely continue to grow rapidly.

41. Onshore wind power generation capacity is expected to reach 839 GW by 2023.

(ECOHZ)

The increasing popularity of onshore wind power is due to its many benefits. It is a renewable resource that emits no greenhouse gasses and has a relatively low environmental impact.

In addition, onshore wind power is becoming increasingly cost-competitive with other forms of energy generation.

42. Wind energy generation requires wind to blow at 9 miles per hour, alternative energy facts propose.

(EIA)

Operating a wind power plant requires careful planning and consideration of the wind conditions at the site. Wind turbines must be positioned in an area where the wind is strong and reliable.

The wind speed and frequency are also critical, affecting how much power the turbines can generate.

43. The tallest turbines today can reach more than 650 ft.

(Visual Capitalist)

Wind turbines have come a long way since the early days of wind energy development. Today, they are more efficient and powerful than ever before. However, these larger turbines come with a hefty price tag, costing over $12 million to manufacture and install.

Geothermal Renewable Energy Facts

44. The US has the world’s largest geothermal power generation capacity at 3,714 GW.

(Think GeoEnergy)

The geological conditions required for geothermal power mean that development has been concentrated in a relatively small number of countries. After the US, the countries with the largest capacities are Indonesia (2.1 GW), the Philippines (1.9 GW), and Turkey (1.7 GW).

45. The worldwide geothermal power generation capacity grew to 15,854 MW in 2021.

(Think GeoEnergy)

This growth is due to several factors, including an increased awareness of the potential of geothermal energy and advances in technology.

Interesting facts about renewable energy suggest one of the key benefits of geothermal energy is it is a renewable resource that can be used to generate electricity with minimal environmental impact.

In addition, geothermal renewable energy power plants have a relatively small footprint and can be located near population centers, making them a more viable option for many communities.

46. The geothermal power generation capacity will grow to 17 GW by 2023.

(Hazardex)

Renewable energy statistics by country show that the biggest clean energy capacity additions are expected to come from Indonesia, Kenya, the Philippines, and Turkey.

These countries have significant geothermal resources and are investing substantially in this clean energy technology. So, they are well positioned to meet the growing global demand for geothermal power.

47. Indonesia aims to install 8 GW of geothermal energy capacity by 2030.

(IEA)

Moreover, plans for exploration and drilling in 20 geothermal areas are scheduled by 2024. This would make the country’s installed capacity equal to that of the US by 2025.

Interesting Facts About Renewable Energy

48. In 2019, about 70% of renewable energy used worldwide was bioenergy.

(Wiley Online Library)

Data shows that most of this occurs in developing countries and relates to the traditional use of biomass for cooking and heating.

Open fires and simple cooking stoves can negatively affect health (indoor smoke inhalation) and the environment. Not to mention that it’s dangerous to operate around open fires, as numerous fire safety statistics show.

49. Stats on renewable energy indicate that renewable energy sources powered 38% of the EU’s electricity in 2020.

(My Modern Met)

This indicates a significant milestone in the electricity sector in Europe. Meanwhile, demand for coal drastically fell by 20% in 2020. Coal is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, so shifting away from coal-fired power plants is essential for mitigating climate change.

50. 77% of surveyed Americans consider developing alternative energy sources more important than producing more fossil fuels.

(Pew Research)

This is one of the renewable energy vs. fossil fuels statistics from a recent Pew Research Center’s renewable energy study.

So, with the current state of the environment, it’s no surprise that more and more Americans are advocating for the development of alternative sources of power over the production of fossil fuels.

51. Ocean energy production has increased 10 times from 2009 to 2019.

(ESI Africa)

In other words, it surged from less than 5 GWh in 2009 to 45 GWh in 2019. Wave energy is cleaner and more sustainable than traditional fossil fuels, making it an attractive option for power companies and consumers alike.

Facts About Renewable Energy—Economy

52. Solar is the cheapest electricity in history; 20–50% cheaper than the IEA expected.

(Carbon Brief)

With the cost of solar falling so rapidly, it is now a viable option for countries worldwide to switch to renewable energy and meet their climate goals.

The IEA’s findings are a significant boost for the solar industry and will help drive further investment in this clean and abundant energy source.

53. Between 2010 and 2020, the cost of electricity from utility-scale solar photovoltaics (PV) fell by 85%.

(IRENA)

Furthermore, facts about renewable energy show that this was followed by a 68% drop in the cost of electricity from concentrating solar power (CSP), a 56% reduction for onshore wind, and a 48% decrease for offshore wind.

The dramatic fall in costs is due to a range of factors, including improvements in technology, increased economies of scale, and the introduction of more efficient financial models.

54. An aggressive push towards 100% renewable energy would save Americans $321 billion in energy costs.

(The Guardian)

In other words, it would save up to $2,500 per household annually, as renewable energy facts suggest. Moreover, according to the same report, this aggressive push toward 100% renewable energy will not only lead to energy cost savings but also slash planet-heating emissions.

55. The best-value wind energy stock is Iberdrola SA, with a market cap of $66.7 billion.

(Investopedia)

The Spain-based multinational electric utility company engages in the generation, distribution, and trading of electricity. Additionally, it specializes in clean energy, including onshore and offshore wind and solar energy.

Renewable Energy Statistics by Country

56. China accounts for 31% of global energy consumption.

(Enerdata)

China’s energy consumption grew by 5.5% in 2021. While China’s rising energy consumption challenges climate change mitigation efforts, it also presents an opportunity for the country to lead the way in developing clean electric energy technologies.

57. China installed 11.52 GW of solar capacity in the first half of 2020.

(Mercom India)

Regarding the growth of solar power installation in China, there was a slight increment in the first half of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019.

Facts about renewable energy find that the country installed 11.4 GW of solar power during that year. The relatively flat movement in power generation capacity is still due to the coronavirus pandemic.

58. US energy production dropped by 5% in 2020.

(World Energy)

According to available data, there was a similar downward trend in energy production, just like its consumption that year. Undoubtedly, this will significantly impact US renewable energy job creation statistics.

59. The US electric power sector is halfway to zero carbon emission.

(Renewable Energy World)

In a recent report, the Renewable Energy World disclosed that the power sector emissions in the country reached half of what was projected.

Namely, the annual carbon emissions fell to 1,450 million metric tons over the last 15 years. This was 52% below the projected level.

60. Wind and solar power generated one-fifth of the EU’s total power generation in 2020.

(Ember)

The rise in renewable energy percentage in the EU was powered by both wind and solar power, jointly contributing a fifth of electricity generation. Specifically, wind generation grew by 9%, while solar rose by 15%.

61. Non-renewable energy facts reveal that about 70% of France’s electricity comes from nuclear energy.

(World Nuclear Association)

While the US consumes the highest amount of nuclear energy in absolute terms among the major producers, nuclear power has the highest share in overall energy consumption in France.

The use of nuclear energy has led to some controversy in France, as it does elsewhere. Opponents argue that it is unsafe and environmentally damaging, while supporters argue it is a clean and efficient energy source.

62. Germany’s renewable energy consumption reached nearly 46% in 2020, renewable energy facts show.

(Foreign Policy)

As for Germany, the country’s energy consumption from renewables almost equaled the combined energy consumption from coal, oil, gas, and nuclear power. As a result, its greenhouse emission also made a record that year, dropping nearly 80 million tons of carbon dioxide.

63. The EU’s CO2 emissions from fossil fuel consumption dropped by 10% in 2020.

(Eurostat)

More specifically, the largest declines in CO2 emissions from energy use were in Greece and Estonia and the lowest in Malta and Hungary.

64. Power generation from renewables rose by 9.46% in India in Q1 2020, according to facts on renewable energy.

(Economic Times)

Before lockdown, India’s renewable power generators contributed nearly 10% more energy, from 9.433 billion units in January 2019 to 10.325 units in the same month in 2020.

The increase in renewable power generation can be attributed to the country’s growing focus on sustainability and commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

65. The UAE plans to spend $160 billion on renewables by 2030.

(World Economic Forum)

The Middle East continues to depend on hydrocarbon generation for most of its energy needs. But it has started considering decarbonizing its energy production.

For instance, the UAE plans to channel its rich oil reserves into an alternative form of energy and generate two-thirds of electricity from carbon-free sources by 2050, alternative energy facts confirm.

66. The Middle East renewable energy market is expected to grow to 59,656 MW by 2027.

(Mordor Intelligence)

The Middle East’s renewable energy market has been growing in recent years. In 2020, the region had an installed capacity of 24,073 MW of renewable energy, which is expected to double by 2027.

This represents a compound annual renewable energy growth rate of 13.43% during the forecast period of 2022–2027. The primary driver of this growth is the increasing availability of financing for renewable energy projects.

67. Based on electricity data, the consumption of this renewable power source decreased by 3.1% in the Middle East in 2020.

(BP)

Renewable energy statistics point out this was below its 10-year average. For example, the drop was most significant in Qatar, with 11.3%, followed by Kuwait, with 3%. Iran didn’t feel the crisis—it had just a 0.2% drop.

68. Renewable energy sources supply only one-third of Africa’s energy demand.

(CNBC Africa)

Moreover, wind and solar generated 6% of South Africa’s electricity in 2020. This represented three times more than what the country generated in 2015. Yet, this figure is still below the 9.4% world average, renewable energy stats find.

69. CO₂ emissions in India fell by 15.4% in the first half of 2020.

(Weather)

This was the steepest fall in Y-o-Y carbon emissions among major economies in the world.

While we will yet see the exact long-term impact of the pandemic on carbon emissions, this initial reduction is a welcome sign that economies can make significant progress in reducing their carbon footprint.

70. Russia’s primary electric consumption in 2021 amounted to 31.3 exajoules.

(Statista)

Russia is the world’s fourth largest consumer of primary energy, behind China, the United States, and India. For instance, Russia’s primary energy consumption was 31.3 exajoules in 2021, up from 28.9 exajoules in the previous year.

71. Renewable resources facts show that renewable energy consumption in the Russian Federation accounts for only 3.22% of the total energy consumption.

(WorldBank)

Even though Russia is rich in natural resources, it doesn’t use them. One reason is that traditional forms of energy, such as oil and gas, are still very cheap in Russia. As a result, there has been little financial incentive to switch to renewables.

72. The share of renewables in transport will grow to 3.8% by 2023.

(IEA)

The contribution of renewables in transport was very low in 2017—3.4%, and this share will grow minimally by 2023. Meanwhile, renewables are expected to expand by almost one-fifth over the forecast period.

Other Facts About Renewable Resources

73. 169 countries in the world have renewable energy targets.

(Vox)

Many countries have taken vital legislative steps to encourage the use of renewable energy. For example, there’s the Renewable Portfolio Standard—the current US renewable energy policy.

The countries are evenly spread across all regions, showing that the role of renewable energy in reducing carbon emissions among all energy sources has been widely recognized, according to facts about renewable energy.

74. Coal share in global power generation went down by 4% in 2020.

(Ember)

In 2020, coal production made a record of -346 TWh thanks to the move toward alternative fuels.

However, coal remains the largest power source globally, generating 34% (8736 TWh) of global electricity in 2020. This decade, the worldwide campaign toward net zero by 2050 would require a 14% cut in annual coal energy production.

75. In China, nearly 60% of the increase in electricity came from new energy sources in the first four months of 2022.

(CGTN)

China is the world leader in installed power generation capacity. Stats on renewable energy note that by the end of April, the country’s installed capacity of non-fossil energy had reached 1.15 billion kilowatts, up by 14.5% Y-o-Y.

The growth in wind and solar power was even more impressive, with a 20.5% year-on-year increase—12.6 percentage points higher than the total installed capacity.

76. Global carbon dioxide emissions decreased by 7% in 2020.

(Institute for Energy Research)

This figure is the largest final cut in annual emissions ever recorded. Further data shows that emissions have considerably decreased among the largest emitters, such as the US, EU, and India.

77. Global renewable energy statistics suggest that 100% renewable energy could power the world by 2030.

(Global100REStrategyGroup)

It would require building many more wind turbines and solar power systems while not utilizing bioenergy. Other changes involve the use of electric cars and the development of enhanced transmission grids and storage.

To date, 11 countries have reached or exceeded 100% renewable electricity, 12 countries have passed laws to reach it by 2030, and 49 countries plan to reach 100% renewable electricity by 2050.

Facts About Renewable Energy: Key Takeaways

There are significant regional variations in renewable energy capacity and consumption. Still, the countries relying heavily on alternative energy also see the associated benefits.

The key drivers behind the sector growth include policy decisions, reduced costs of solar and wind energy, and widespread acceptance among consumers regarding the importance of switching to clean power sources.

The share of renewable energy sources in electricity generation is growing at a brisk pace globally. However, the share growth of renewables in other areas of energy use is much slower and a cause for concern.

People Also Ask

• Allied Market Research
• Biodiesel Magazine
• BP
• Carbon Brief
• CGTN
• Choose Energy
• CNBC Africa
• ECOHZ
• Economic Times
• EIA
• EIA
• ElectronicsAndYou
• Ember
• Ember
• Enerdata
• English.gov
• ESI Africa
• Eurostat
• Eurostat
• Foreign Policy
• Fortune Business Insights
• Global100REStrategyGroup
• Hazardex
• HELIOSCSP
• Hydro Review
• IEA
• IEA
• IEA
• IEA
• IEA
• IEA
• IEA
• IEA
• IHA
• Institute for Energy Research
• Inverse
• Investopedia
• Investopedia
• IRENA
• IRENA
• IRENA
• IRENA
• Knoema
• MAN
• MDPI
• Mercom India
• Mordor Intelligence
• My Modern Met
• Open PR
• Pew Research
• Power Technology
• Renewable Energy World
• Renewables Now
• Renewables Now
• Reuters
• SEIA
• SP Global
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• The Guardian
• The Guardian
• Think GeoEnergy
• Trade
• TRVST
• Visual Capitalist
• Vox
• Weather
• Wiley Online Library
• Wind Europe
• WorldBank
• World Economic Forum
• World Energy
• World Nuclear Association

As a homeowner, you always want to ensure that your property is as safe as possible. While there are many things you can do to improve your home security, it’s important to be aware of the most common home security statistics.

By understanding them, you can better protect your family and home safety. The purpose of security systems is not only to protect one’s property but they are also supposed to give peace of mind to the people living in it.

We’ve compiled some insightful stats and facts to help you understand the importance of keeping your home secure.

US Burglary Statistics

1. A burglary occurred every 28.3 seconds in 2019.

(NRA)

It means two burglaries took place every minute in the US. Moreover, every 4.6 seconds, somebody in the US was a victim of a property crime. Larcenies and thefts were most common, with one happening every 6.2 seconds.

2. Out of all reported property crimes across the US, burglaries accounted for 16.1% in 2019.

(Federal Bureau of Investigation)

According to the FBI’s annual report for 2019 and its stats on home invasions per year, the number of burglaries across the country has declined by 9.5% compared to the year before.

Burglary facts reveal that the decline in burglaries is likely due to many factors, including increased security measures like alarm systems and security cameras. Additionally, many states have enacted stricter penalties for criminals convicted of burglary, which may act as a deterrent.

3. In 2020, California had the highest number of reported burglary cases.

(Statista, Statista)

California recorded 145,529 robbery cases in 2020—the highest number in the entire country that year. Then again, if we look at the burglary rates by state, New Mexico took the lead in 2020, with 648.8 cases per 100,000 residents.

4. In 2020, most burglars (67,230) were between the ages of 20 and 29.

(Crime Data)

Moreover, most of them were males and white. As for the victims, most (98,560) were between the ages of 30 and 39. Furthermore, most were white males who didn’t know the offender.

5. 85% of burglars know their victims, theft statistics point out.

(Interview Area)

This is often because they know that a victim will have valuables in their home and will be away from home for an extended period.

As such, it is vital to be extra vigilant about security if you have valuables in your home and ensure you are not an easy target.

6. Property crimes resulted in a substantial financial loss of $15.8 billion in 2019, DOJ crime stats show.

(Federal Bureau of Investigation)

The impact of a burglary isn’t only reflected in the value of the property stolen. Burglaries can also create a causal sequence leading to further financial loss.

For example, victims may have to miss work for days due to physical trauma. Others can suffer serious psychological distress. Circumstances such as these also contribute to the financial loss associated with burglary.

Home Burglary Statistics

7. On average, 101.4 people per 1,000 households were victims of property crime in 2019.

(Bureau of Justice Statistics)

This number refers to all types of property crime, including burglary, trespassing, and theft. More specifically, the rate for burglary/trespassing was 17.2 in 1,000 households, which is a drop from the year before, when it was 21.1.

8. Home safety statistics show that 43% of surveyed Americans worry about a break-in when not at home.

(Statista)

A home is supposed to be a safe haven where we can relax and let down our guard. But for many Americans, the fear of a break-in is a genuine concern. The good news is that you can take steps to help protect yourself from home robberies.

Start by ensuring all doors and windows are locked and consider investing in a security system. You can also create the illusion that someone is home even when you’re not by using timers on lights and electronics.

9. 62.8% of burglaries occurred at residences in 2019.

(Federal Bureau of Investigation)

One of the FBI burglary statistics points out that 576,607 out of 917,464 were residential robberies. This could mean that burglars find it easier to break into a home than an office or other non-residential locations.

10. The rate of home burglaries in 2019 was 0.82%.

(Bureau of Justice Statistics)

However, it is important to remember that even a small chance of being burglarized can significantly impact a victim. Any type of burglary can result in the loss of valuable possessions and a sense of violation and insecurity.

As such, it is vital to take steps to protect your home and belongings, as home security facts propose.

11. There were 1.7 million victims of home burglary and trespassing in 2020.

(Bureau of Justice Statistics)

According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, the number of burglary and trespassing victimizations declined from 2019. In other words, there were 2.2 million victimizations in 2019.

12. Only 32.5% of all household property crimes were reported to the police in 2019.

(Pew Research)

House burglary facts show people may choose not to report a crime for several reasons. In some cases, victims may feel that the police will be unable to help them recover their stolen property or catch the perpetrator.

In other cases, victims may be afraid of retaliation from the perpetrator or unwilling to go through the hassle of filing police reports.

Regardless of the reason, it is essential to remember that reporting crimes can help keep our communities safe. By bringing criminals to justice and providing authorities with information about criminal activity, we can help make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

13. Home break-in statistics note that most home burglaries occur between 10 in the morning and 3 in the afternoon.

(ADT)

However, an investigative report found that some burglars preferred the specific window of 12:30–2:30 pm because they wouldn’t be interrupted by a person coming home for lunch, and school would still be in session.

This time frame allows burglars more time to break in and ransack a home without being caught. Moreover, burglars also prefer the summer months.

14. Home invasion stats show that 34% of burglars use the front door when breaking in.

(RD)

Burglars prefer to use the front door. Typically, the best home security cameras focus on the front door area. However, experts claim that, in most cases, people simply forget to lock their front door, making it easy for burglars to enter their homes.

The same applies to back doors, which 22% of burglars use as their entry points. Robbery statistics note that another 23% use first-floor windows that are usually left open.

Learn about burglary vs. robbery here.

15. The bedroom is the first room three-quarters of burglars would target.

(RD)

This is likely because bedrooms typically contain valuable items such as jewelry, electronics, and cash. However, other rooms in the house are also popular targets for burglars.

For instance, 26% of burglars would check an office or study, while 19% would target the living room. In addition, home invasions statistics reveal that almost 16% would look in the bathroom, while 21% would check other rooms not listed.

This survey provides valuable insights into the mind of a burglar and can help homeowners take steps to protect their belongings.

16. The LAPD has identified 17 different gangs involved in the “follow home robberies” crime wave.

(NBC News)

In recent months, there has been a surge in this crime wave in the Los Angeles area, as statistics on robberies show. In these crimes, gangs of thieves follow their victims home from public places and then rob them as they go into their isolated homes.

More specifically, thieves typically target people wearing expensive watches, jewelry, or other personal items. In response to this trend, the police department has increased patrols in the areas where these robberies have been reported. Increasing your safety by carrying a stun gun might be a good idea in rough neighborhoods.

17. House burglary statistics find that a burglar usually spends between 8 and 12 minutes inside a home.

(WFMY)

When these 12 minutes are up, the burglar will usually choose to flee the scene, regardless of whether they’ve found any valuables.

Experts recommend hiding your jewelry, cash, and other prized possessions in biometric safe or difficult-to-find places to mitigate the potential financial impact of house burglary.

Home Security System Statistics

18. Homes without security systems are 2.71 times more likely to be robbed.

(Fox Temple, Deep Sentinel)

Installing video cameras, alarms, and other security tools at home could be expensive, but it might be a smart investment.

Research reveals that a large majority of professional burglars, 83% of them, first check if a property they plan to break into has a security system in place. If it does, home security statistics uncover that 60% of them say they’ll give up on it and look for another target.

Numerous package theft statistics also show thieves targeting homes without any security system.

19. Only 36 million out of the 127.59 million households in the US have home security systems.

(Security)

In other words, less than 30% of households in the United States have home security systems installed. That leaves a whopping 91.59 million households without any protection against intruders.

20. Stealing statistics discover that, on average, the dollar loss per burglary in 2019 was $2,661.

(Federal Bureau of Investigation)

Burglars are typically most interested in cash, jewelry, electronic devices, and guns. For this reason, it’s handy to have a quality gun safe to protect your belongings. Many also steal motor vehicles, so you should consider acquiring a suitable and well-made car alarm.

Let’s not forget that the number of car thefts increased by 10.9% in 2020.

21. In 2019, 27% of US seniors considered home security devices essential for independent living, home security statistics show.

(Parks Associates)

A recent study found that the adoption of smart speakers and displays with voice assistants among seniors has quadrupled in recent years, with 17% of seniors reporting using these devices in 2019.

That’s why it’s advisable to go through a smart home guide before upgrading your home with all the latest tech tools.

22. 60% of surveyed US household members feel safe with professional home security systems, as per security system statistics.

(Parks Associates)

Professional home security systems are controlled by a security company whose team responds to all emergencies. On the other hand, self-monitored security systems give all the control to a homeowner.

In addition, around 55% of households using these self-monitored systems say they feel safe.

23. One in four surveyed people admit to using their cameras to spy on their neighbors, home security statistics show.

(Study Finds)

A recent survey conducted on more than 1,000 Americans who have home security cameras has revealed some interesting insights into our nosy tendencies.

Gen X homeowners are the most likely to spy on their neighbors, while 30% of younger respondents say they do the opposite—they use their cameras to avoid people who knock on their door.

What to Do in Home Invasion?

These are particularly dangerous situations because intruders may have weapons, and there is a risk they will become violent home invasions. If you find yourself in a home invasion, the best thing to do is to call the police immediately.

Do not try to confront the intruder yourself, as this could escalate the situation and put you in danger. If possible, try to find a safe hiding place, such as a locked room or closet. Once the police arrive, they will handle the situation and determine whether any charges will be filed.

In the meantime, it is vital to take steps to secure your home and make sure everyone is safe.

Conclusion

US home invasion statistics reveal that the number of cases is declining, but you still can’t be too complacent.

Regardless of your home’s size, installing security devices is recommended. Anything from using outdoor lighting with a timer to having a security sign and even owning a dog can fend off the bad guys. These are usually the most common options for home security.

These tools can be quite expensive, but it’s a one-time investment for your security. After all, paying for these devices is better than risking your family’s safety.

People Also Ask

• ADT
• Bureau of Justice Statistics
• Bureau of Justice Statistics
• Crime Data
• Deep Sentinel
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• Fox Temple
• Interview Area
• NBC News
• NRA
• Parks Associates
• Parks Associates
• Pew Research
• RD
• RD
• Security
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• Study Finds
• WFMY

Credit cards and online shopping made our lives so much easier but also increased our chances of getting robbed—we have credit card fraud statistics to prove it. We are all trying to be more careful, but that isn’t easy because the latest technology brought on new information theft and fraud methods that are hard for us to understand, let alone protect from. 

The latest statistics show a shift in trends, as fraudsters are gradually abandoning methods like ATM skimming. The statistics we’ve prepared are not about keeping you occupied for the next several minutes but warning you about the dangers of the digital age. 

Worrying Identity Fraud Statistics

1. The US accounted for one-third of the global card fraud loss in 2019. 

(Nilson)

The US accounted for 22.19% of the global card volume and an alarming 33.57% of the total international card fraud loss. We can’t say that the situation is improving because the results were fairly similar the year before, reaching 23.33% and 33.99%, respectively.

2. The identity theft percentage in the US is two times higher than the global average. 

(Proofpoint)

The statistics show that one in three Americans has experienced identity theft. This is two times higher than the global average. The situation gets even worse when we compare the results with developed European countries like Germany and France. They have a three times lower percentage of identity thefts.

3. The number of identity theft complaints in 2020 was twice as high as in 2019. 

(Insurance Information Institute)

The ID theft stats show that there were 1.4 million identity theft complaints in 2020, which was a significant increase from 651,000 complaints in 2019. To put things in perspective, the number of complaints in 2018 was around 444,000. The numbers clearly show a rising trajectory, which means we should be more cautious online and in the real world.

4. There were 365,597 credit card fraud cases involving new accounts reported in 2020 in the US.

(Insurance Information Institute)

According to the credit card fraud stats, the new account scams accounted for about 29.7% of all identity theft cases in 2020. Even though that percentage seems pretty high, it decreased from 45.7% in 2019.

5. 60% of people who commit child identity fraud know the victims personally. 

(Javelin)

According to the latest available cybercrime statistics, more than one million kids in the US were identity theft victims in 2017. What’s even worse, two-thirds of those kids were under eight, and 18% of fraudsters were kids’ relatives, most often their parents. The report for the latest credit card frauds in 2020 where children were involved is not yet available, but it’s doubtful it will be any better.

6. Almost 80% of credit card fraud perpetrators are men. 

(USCC)

Out of 535 cases reported to the USSC in 2019, most perpetrators were men, and the average age was 34. Almost half (45%) had little or no prior criminal history, which is troubling. They may view this as a victimless crime because usually banks and large companies cover losses. That makes it easier for them to get involved in criminal activities.

7. US credit card fraud statistics reveal that people aged 30 to 39 are the most common fraud victims. 

(Federal Trade Commission)

Out of 238,008 reported credit card fraud cases in 2019, 74,572 people were victims between 30 and 39 years of age. The second most affected group involves people aged 40 to 49, with 55,672 reported cases. These two categories account for more than 55% of total victims, which is understandable since online banking statistics show they are economically active the most.

8. Bank fraud statistics reveal that people aged 70 and over lose two times more money to credit card fraud than people half their age.

(Federal Trade Commission)

Senior citizens aged 70 to 79 had the median loss of $800 in 2019, but the 80 and older age group overshadowed that. Their median loss was $1,600. The reason could be that senior citizens are less familiar with potential dangers and unaware of the latest fraud schemes.

9. Your Social Security Number is worth $1 on the black market. 

(Experian)

When it comes to Dark Web and credit card fraud, the facts are gloomy. Debit and credit cards go from $5 to $110, and fraudsters can get CVV numbers and bank information for an additional $5 to $15.

If they are interested in higher education, your diploma will cost them anywhere from $100 to $400. Medical ID theft statistics show they can get your medical records for $1 to $1,000. Some experts say that these Dark Web sites are like webshops, and the visitors can choose the “item” they want and add it to their shopping cart. They can choose if they want to commit voter fraud, insurance fraud, etc.

Credit Card Theft Statistics – Losses and Penalization

Credit card fraud can be a state or federal offense, depending on whether it was committed over the state lines or against the government. Federal credit card fraud felonies carry sentences of up to 20 years in prison.

10. The most common prison sentences for credit card fraud are one to five years but can go up to 20 years. 

(FindLaw)

Depending on the damage caused by the specific credit card fraud, jail time varies. The laws in different states view credit card fraud differently, but the sentence mostly depends on damages. For lower amounts, $500 or $1,000, the fraud will likely be treated as a misdemeanor. When damages are much greater, the offense becomes a felony, and thieves may be convicted to 15 to 20 years in prison. 

11. The US generated about a third of the global credit card fraud loss in 2019. 

(Nilson)

Financial fraud statistics reveal that global losses in 2019 came to $28.65 million, which was a 2.9% increase from 2018. One country, however, took the lead. Namely, about a third of that loss was generated in the US, making it the most credit card fraud-prone country in the world.

12. In the UK, credit card fraud losses reached £620.6 million ($853 million) in value in 2019.

(Statista)

Credit card fraud statistics for the UK show a rising trajectory because 2019 losses were almost two times higher than in 2011. That’s a global issue. As we continue to use our credit cards more and more, the losses will only grow. 

13. Private label payment cards accounted for 2.3% of all global card fraud losses in 2019.

(Nilson)

These are company-issued cards – the ones you get from retail stores, gas stations, airlines, etc. Frankly, It’s unusual that they are involved in frauds, but it turns out that there is a lot of money there. Of course, this makes them appealing to fraudsters. Credit card fraud loss statistics show that private label cards accounted for $961.92 billion in total volume in 2019. Furthermore, the experts estimate the losses at $650 million, which is a 7.8% increase from 2018. 

14. The FBI estimates that skimming costs US financial institutions and consumers more than $1 billion each year.

(FBI), (Statista)

However, things are improving in Europe, and we can expect the same trend in the US. When it comes to ATM skimming, the statistics show that reported losses in Europe in 2019 were slightly higher than in 2018, reaching around $297 million and $294 million, respectively.

Despite the $3 million increase, it’s still much lower than $421 million in 2017 and $396 million the year before. Overall, the damage caused by skimming is declining. That’s mainly because most cards now have chips, which makes them harder to skim than those with magnetic strips.

Credit Card Fraud Statistics – Projections

15. Experts predict that credit card fraud losses per $100 of total sales will drop by 20% by 2027.

(Statista)

With new methods of protection against credit card fraud and people learning how to avoid scams, we can expect that the loss will drop to 5.7 cents per $100 in 2027. This is a considerable decrease compared to 6.9 cents in 2018.

16. 67% of US citizens are afraid of becoming victims of identity theft, as statistics suggest.

(Atlas VPN)

It turns out that people are more afraid of identity theft than being murdered (20%), getting burglarized (43%), and terrorism (29%). That’s hardly surprising because our personal information is digitized and available to anyone with enough will and expertise to access it. If someone goes through so much trouble to acquire that information, they will certainly abuse it. 

17. The introduction of EMV chip cards reduced merchants’ counterfeit fraud losses by 87%.

(Thales)

When it comes to EMV fraud, the statistics show a significant improvement since the EMV introduction, resulting in increased popularity. One billion EMV cards had been in circulation by the end of 2019, and 99% of US payment volume in March 2019 was via EMV cards. As the number of EMV cards increases, we can expect the number of physical skimming and similar fraud attempts to decline even more.

18. Retailers can lose up to $130 billion in digital CNP (card-not-present) fraud by 2023.

(Juniper Research)

Once one of the most common types of credit card fraud, credit card skimming is now pale in comparison to more complex fraud methods. Physical card skimming offenses have dropped since the introduction of the EMV cards with chips, and fraudsters are turning to other methods like application fraud or account takeover. 

19. RFID cards are safe, and the UK reports zero remote card skimming cases.

(UK Finance), (Digital Trends)

An RFID reader can’t skim your data simply by getting close to you in some public place because RFID cards can’t transmit any data that crooks can later use. The most recent RFID theft statistics show that there is no reason to be concerned. 

According to UK Finance, £20.6 million ($28.4 million) in fraud losses as a result of contactless payment were reported in 2019, and the spending on contactless payment was £80.5 billion ($111.04 billion). This is equivalent to 2.5p ($0.03) for every £100 ($137.9) spent via contactless payment. 

That’s about two times less than regular credit cards. To put things in perspective, credit card fraud statistics in the US show losses of 5.7 cents for each $100 spent.

20. Online credit card skimming attempts are on the rise, with a 26% increase in March of 2020.

(Malwarebytes)

Malwarebytes, a well-known security company, found that the number of online skimming offenses increased by 26% in March of 2020. Fraudsters try to get people’s card information through fraudulent websites, pages, even favicons that contain malware.

Online credit card skimming statistics show that 74.4% of all attempts happened in the US, followed by Canada and Australia, with 5.9% and 5.8%, respectively. The bigger the market, the more appealing it is. This is a clear indicator that as ecommerce grows, online skimming fraud will become more frequent.

Conclusion

It’s a dangerous world out there. Well, in all honesty, it never ceased to be, but threats and dangers are changing. The fact is – we should all be more careful about what we do online and improve security any way we can. And, we better do it before we become a part of the credit card theft statistics.

We all like that we can finish so much of our everyday errands and manage our money online and effortlessly. Still, the online world has attracted many bad guys who are very inventive in finding new ways to take advantage of us. We are not talking just about the money. We are talking about our identities and personal information. 

People Also Ask

• Atlas VPN
• Digital Trends
• Experian
• FBI
• Federal Trade Commission
• FindLaw
• Insurance Information Institute
• Insurance Information Institute
• Javelin
• Juniper Research
• Malwarebytes
• Nilson
• Payments Journal
• Proofpoint
• Statista
• Statista
• Statista
• Thales
• UK Finance
• USCC