Recognizing the Scam: Cybercrime Risk and Prevention among Older Adults

• In Event: Research from UC CYBORG Scholars: Memes, Scams, & Technology

Abstract

Older adults are disproportionately affected by cybercrime. They are more frequently targeted, have a greater likelihood of victimization, and experience greater financial losses on average. The current study examined perceptions of cybercrime risk and prevention among n = 10 older adults participating in a community-based education seminar designed to reduce vulnerability to online and computer-enabled crimes. Using a mixed-methods approach, the current study drew on semi-structured interviews with older adults living in assisted living facilities to explore perceptions of victimization risk, strategies used to recognize scams, and preventive behaviors practiced online. Also incorporated were participant reflections on the education program itself, providing insight into how older adults interpret and adopt cybercrime prevention strategies. Findings contribute to growing research on cybercrime victimization among older adults and offer implications for the design of community-based prevention initiatives.

Authors

• Rachel Van Etten, University of Cincinnati

• Timothy Engle, University of Cincinnati

• Clay Driscoll, University of Cincinnati

• Rebekkah L. Gross, University of Cincinnati

• Joseph Nedelec, University of Cincinnati