Introduction
In an increasingly digital society, smartphones, tablets, and social media have become part of everyday life. However, two groups stand out as particularly vulnerable in this environment—not due to recklessness, but due to a lack of cybersecurity awareness: the elderly and children. Cybercriminals often view these groups as easy targets (Li et al., 2019; Shapiro et al., 2025).
While digital technology has enabled connection, education, and entertainment, it also harbours scammers, predators, and various cyber threats. Even tech-savvy adults sometimes fall prey to these dangers, making it even more critical to support those with limited experience online (FTC, 2023).
Digital Traps Facing the Elderly
Older adults are frequently targeted by imposter scams, fraudulent tech support calls, and phishing attacks because they often rely on trust and routine when navigating unfamiliar technology. According to recent research, imposter scams are among the most damaging and commonly reported cybercrimes affecting older Americans (Shapiro et al., 2025). Factors such as cognitive decline, loneliness, and limited digital literacy contribute to this susceptibility (Li et al., 2019).
The Online Risks to Children
Children are naturally curious and adapt quickly to technology, but their innocence leaves them exposed to threats like online predators, cyberbullying, identity theft, and exposure to harmful content. Many parents mistakenly assume that antivirus software and content filters provide full protection. In reality, these tools can be bypassed, and children need active guidance and supervision to navigate online spaces safely (FTC Committee, 2024).
Why Education Is More Effective Than Technology Alone Most cyberattacks target human vulnerabilities rather than technical weaknesses. While tools like firewalls and filters are valuable, informed individuals are the most effective defense. Hadlington (2017) found that impulsivity and low cybersecurity awareness are linked to risky online behaviour. Age-appropriate education, mentorship, and constant reminders can significantly reduce risk.
Just as we teach children to cross the road safely or remind older adults to lock their doors, we must instill habits such as not clicking suspicious links, avoiding sharing personal information, and reporting suspicious behaviour online.
A Call to Families, Schools and Communities
Cybersecurity awareness is not solely a family matter—it is a societal responsibility. While families should set the foundation, schools, community organisations, and government bodies must support education efforts. Organised workshops in schools and community centres can provide essential knowledge. Moreover, creating trusted environments where children and elderly individuals feel comfortable reporting online experiences is vital.
Every digital click can be a doorway—sometimes to opportunity, but other times to danger. It is our collective duty to ensure the most vulnerable are educated, prepared, and protected.
References
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) (2023). Protecting Older Consumers, 2022–2023. Available at: https://www.ftc.gov/ (Accessed: 4 August 2025).
FTC Committee (2024). A Review of Scam Prevention Messaging Research: Takeaways for Designing Effective Messages. Available at: https://consumer.ftc.gov/ (Accessed: 4 August 2025).
Hadlington, L. (2017). Human factors in cybersecurity; examining the link between Internet addiction, impulsivity, attitudes towards cybersecurity, and risky cybersecurity behaviours. Heliyon, 3(7), e00346.
Li, Y., Cross, C. and Smith, R.G. (2019). Why are older adults victims of fraud? Current knowledge and prospects regarding older adults’ vulnerability to fraud. Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect, 31(3), pp.225–243. ∙ Shapiro, M.L., Nichols, C. and Foltz, C. (2025). Cyber‑enabled imposter scams against older adults in the United States. Security Journal, 38, pp.43–56. Available at: https://link.springer.com/ (Accessed: 4 August 2025).. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!
Very informative article. Thank you!