Four in five Australians are experiencing disputes with social networks and online stores, a growing problem costing consumers almost $500 million a year.
Despite the high toll, only three in five people are raising complaints about their issues, with many unsure where to find help.
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman released the findings on Monday from a study of consumer experiences on digital services, including the most pressing issues and problematic platforms.
The research comes after a review of the Online Safety Act recommended the government appoint a digital ombudsman, and after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission made a similar recommendation in its Digital Platform Services Inquiry.
The report, undertaken by the Consumer Policy Research Centre, surveyed more than 1000 people about their online experiences.
