Fearing Terrorism, Most Americans Accept Growing Use of Security

Still reeling from the aftershocks of September 11, 2001, more than seven in 10 Americans surveyed feel reassured by cameras and other security measures installed where they work, shop and play, according to a new survey from ADT Security Services Inc., conducted with BNP Media.

Underscoring concern about personal safety, less than a third of the survey's respondents believe that their privacy is invaded by either security cameras in public places or by home security systems. That consensus can be explained by the survey's concurrent finding that two-thirds express apprehension that a terrorist attack might affect them or their families.

Conducted weeks after 9/11's third anniversary, the ADT Security Survey also found that six in 10 Americans said that security cameras provide effective crime deterrence. Nine in 10 said that the use of these devices in airports, retail establishments and government buildings is appropriate. Seven in 10 are reassured by such precautions as home security systems, identification cards and access control badges in the workplace, and anti- shoplifting systems in stores.

"The ADT Security Survey conclusively demonstrates that the public feels safer knowing that there are extra 'eyes' helping to protect them in many of the places they visit throughout the day," said Jay Stuck, vice president of corporate communications for ADT.

The ADT Security Survey of 1,030 adults across the country was conducted during October 2004 by BNP Media in conjunction with TNS NFO. The survey has an error margin of plus or minus 3.1 percent.