The Risks Facing Young People Online

Despite their reputation for being digitally savvy, young people are potentially more exposed to cyber threats than ever before. Research from the National Cybersecurity Alliance reveals that Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to be online than older generations, with over 60% of them reporting that they're always connected.

• Gen Z (65%) and Millennials (64%) are far more likely to report being always online, compared to the Silent Generation (23%).
• Gen Z (38%) and Millennials (36%) have over 10 online accounts, making them more susceptible to cyber threats.

But it's not just about the number of accounts. The way young people interact with technology also poses a risk. Research from HP found that younger people are less likely to follow corporate security policies and even claim to bypass them to get work done.

The Psychology Behind Young People's Online Behavior

Young people's online behavior is often driven by impatience, naivety, overconfidence, or a sense of invincibility. This can lead them to put themselves in positions of danger online, such as falling for phishing scams, online dating scams, or losing money and data.

• According to the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA), 60% of money mules are under the age of 30.

The Biggest Online Threats Facing Young People

The cyber threats facing young people online are similar to those their parents may face, but there are some key differences. For example:

• Young people are more likely to be over-trusting and impulsive online, making them more vulnerable to psychological manipulation.
• They may also be more susceptible to emotional scams, such as online dating scams or fake social media profiles.

Protecting Young People Online

The good news is that the same best practices apply to young people as they do to any internet user. To mitigate the risks, consider the following:

• Digital natives may be instinctively comfortable interacting with connected technologies.
• However, they can also be over-trusting, impulsive and impatient online.
• The key to changing behaviors among this cohort is not to lecture, but to share knowledge, communicate risk with empathy and understanding.

This requires a different approach than traditional cybersecurity advice. Instead of scolding or lecturing young people, we should be sharing knowledge, highlighting the risks they face, and empowering them to make informed decisions about their online lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, young people are facing a unique set of cyber threats that require a tailored approach to protection. By understanding the psychology behind their online behavior and sharing knowledge in an empathetic way, we can empower young people to take control of their digital lives and stay safe online.