Analysis of the Vulnerability of the Elderly to Phishing

Abstract

Objectives: phishing is one of the most common cybercrimes, using fraudulent emails, messages, or websites to obtain personal and financial information. Older adults tend to be more vulnerable due to limited digital skills, cognitive constraints, and accessibility challenges. This study aims to analyze the factors that increase seniors’ susceptibility to phishing attacks and compare their digital security behaviors with those of younger adults.

Problem Diagnosis: There is a need for reflection on the importance of paying attention to the elderly in relation to technology-based scams. Therefore, this research seeks to identify: what factors make the elderly more vulnerable to phishing?

Methodology/approach: a quantitative approach was adopted using a structured Likert-scale questionnaire applied via Google Forms. The sample included 217 participants divided into two groups: adults aged 18 to 59 and older adults aged 60 or above. Data were collected between November 2024 and March 2025, enabling comparison of security habits, risk perception, and exposure to fraud across age groups.

Results: findings show that older adults check email authenticity less frequently, with only 23% always verifying the sender. They report lower confidence in identifying phishing attempts, reduced use of security tools, and less engagement in seeking information about digital threats. Although both groups recognize that phishing scams have become more sophisticated, older adults display greater difficulty distinguishing legitimate from fraudulent messages.

Contribution: the increased vulnerability of older adults to phishing is associated with technological limitations, cognitive challenges, and low digital literacy. The study highlights the importance of digital inclusion programs, educational initiatives, and public policies aimed at strengthening the autonomy and online safety of this population.