As digital technology becomes more integrated into everyday life, older adults are joining the online world in greater numbers. According to Eurostat, nearly 70% of Europeans aged 65+ used the internet regularly in 2023—a dramatic rise from previous years.

While digital inclusion enhances independence and connectivity, it also introduces risks—especially cybersecurity threats. That’s where the Cyber Safe Senior initiative plays a critical role.

Why Seniors Are More Vulnerable to Cyber Threats

Research by the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) reveals that people over 60 are among the most targeted groups for online scams, including phishing attacks, fraudulent phone calls, and impersonation schemes.

Many seniors face these challenges due to:

• Limited digital literacy

• Rapidly evolving tech landscape

• Increased social isolation

• A lack of formal cybersecurity training

Nearly 1 in 4 seniors report experiencing cyber fraud, from identity theft to financial scams—resulting not only in monetary losses but emotional trauma and distrust in digital tools.

Introducing the Cyber Safe Senior Project

To tackle these challenges, the Cyber Safe Senior project was launched across Europe through a multi-national partnership involving Slovenia, Greece, Turkey, Poland, and other EU countries.

Its mission? To empower older adults with practical cybersecurity skills and to equip educators to deliver this knowledge effectively.

The project’s website provides free cybersecurity learning resources tailored for adult learners: https://www.cybersafesenior.eu

Also explore the project via IED: Cyber Safe Senior on IED

Practical Cybersecurity Training Topics

The curriculum is structured into easy-to-understand modules, focusing on the real-world threats seniors face:

• Spotting phishing scams and fake emails/SMS

• Creating and managing secure passwords

• Safe practices on social media

• Protecting personal data and privacy

• Navigating online banking and shopping securely

• What to do after a cyber incident

This content ensures seniors can safely explore the digital world with confidence and autonomy.

Collaborative Education and Community Impact

In a recent training session in Slovenia, 25 certified adult educators from multiple EU countries came together for a three-day workshop. This train-the-trainer model ensures widespread dissemination, as each educator brings cybersecurity awareness back to their local communities.

By investing in educator training, Cyber Safe Senior guarantees sustainability and scalability of cybersecurity education.

Why Cyber Safety for Seniors Matters

Digital inclusion is more than just access—it’s about safety, dignity, and trust.

The Cyber Safe Senior initiative contributes to:

• Narrowing the digital divide

• Enhancing quality of life

• Reducing social isolation

• Supporting EU digital and cybersecurity strategies

As technology and threats evolve, so must our responses. This project demonstrates how education and innovation can protect vulnerable populations and help them thrive in the digital age.

Learn More & Get Involved

Help spread the word and support senior digital safety by:

• Sharing this article

• Connecting with the project on Facebook

• Visiting Cyber Safe Senior’s website

• Exploring IED’s official project listing