Many of the World's Elderly Avoid the Internet Due to Lack of Support

Rhea-AI Summary

A global survey by Avast reveals a significant digital generation gap among seniors, with only 42% of those aged 55 and older using the internet regularly. The survey, which included 2,700 participants, found that non-usage rates increase with age, reaching 39% among those 75 and older. Key reasons for avoiding the internet include perceived lack of necessity (59%), complexity (42%), and fear of cyber risks (36%). Despite these challenges, 24% of non-users are open to going online with support, highlighting the need for education and assistance for this demographic.

Positive

• 24% of non-internet users among seniors are open to using the internet with help.
• Potential for growth in digital service adoption among the elderly.
• Increased awareness of cybersecurity concerns among older adults.

Negative

• Only 42% of seniors use the internet regularly, indicating a digital divide.
• 39% of seniors aged 75 and older do not use the internet, highlighting age-related challenges.
• 59% state they don't feel the need for the internet, which could hinder future growth.

PRAGUE, Feb. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- A global survey conducted by Avast (LSE:AVST), a global leader in digital security and privacy solutions, reveals a digital generation gap: The proportion of internet non-users is highest among the elderly. Yet senior* citizens could benefit from digital services, especially in times like the pandemic, and while some respondents categorically reject the internet, others would take the plunge if they could get help from friends or family.

Of the 2,700 people aged 55 and older* surveyed worldwide by telephone, 42% use the internet regularly, 31% occasionally, and 27% never. Half of the respondents are retired and the proportion of people who do not use the internet increases with age: While only 17% of people aged 55-60 do not use the internet, the proportion goes up to 39% among people aged 75 and over. In a country comparison, respondents in Russia, the UK, Japan, and New Zealand are the most active online; in Brazil, France, Mexico and Spain, many older people still use the internet little or not at all, and 88% of all people globally not using the internet, have never used it so far.

The reasons why respondents do not use the internet at all varied: 59% answered that they think they do not need it, 42% find it too complicated, 37% rely on family and friends if they need something done online, and 36% shy away from using it because of cyber risks. Another 36% feel too old for it, and 28% claim it is too expensive, while 15% simply reject the internet.

"The age group over 60 years old, in particular, struggles the most and, according to our survey, this applies equally to men and women. The challenges start with choosing the right devices and software. Properly configuring privacy settings, setting up devices and a Wi-Fi network are also insurmountable hurdles for many as well as ongoing maintenance," said Jaya Baloo, Chief Information Security Officer at Avast.

Many older people would venture into the digital world if they had support

While 24% of the internet non-users surveyed can imagine using the internet, for 76% it is currently out of the question to ever go online. 43% of those who are not confident doing things online claim it bothers them, and 41% would like help from friends or family, for example, with online activities.

When it comes to security, one-third are not concerned at all, 27% are slightly concerned, and 44% are afraid of cybercrime, with identity theft, data breaches, stolen passwords and malware including ransomware the biggest concerns among older people. Stalkerware, spam, fake news and insecure public Wi-Fi networks on the other hand, worry respondents the least.

"We were able to determine through our survey that there is a likely correlation between the amount of time people spend on the internet and their confidence in using it," Jaya Baloo continued. "In general, it does bother people that they feel a bit insecure and awkward using the internet and many also feel they are a burden to others if they have to ask them for help."

In order to participate in the online world, elderly people in many countries can seek external help in addition to turning to family and friends. For example, adult education centers often offer beginners' courses for senior citizens, there are free internet meeting places in various cities, or non-profit organizations such as the National Council on Aging (NCOA) in the United States that provide advice and support for older people when it comes to the internet.

*At 46%, the largest group of the 2,700 people aged 55 and over surveyed worldwide live with a partner, 33% live with relatives under one roof, and 27% live on their own. The research institute YouGov conducted a representative telephone survey on behalf of Avast in September 2021 in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Czech Republic, France, India, Mexico, New Zealand, Russia, Slovakia, Spain, United Kingdom, United States, Japan.

About Avast:

Avast (LSE:AVST), a FTSE 100 company, is a global leader in digital security and privacy, headquartered in Prague, Czech Republic. With over 435 million users online, Avast offers products under the Avast and AVG brands that protect people from threats on the internet and the evolving IoT threat landscape. The company's threat detection network is among the most advanced in the world, using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies to detect and stop threats in real time. Avast digital security products for Mobile, PC or Mac are top-ranked and certified by VB100, AV-Comparatives, AV-Test, SE Labs and others. Avast is a member of Coalition Against Stalkerware, No More Ransom, and the Internet Watch Foundation. Visit: www.avast.com.

Keep in touch with Avast:

• For security and privacy insights, visit the Avast blog: https://blog.avast.com/ 
• For in-depth technical analysis of threats, visit the Avast Decoded blog: https://decoded.avast.io/
• For handy guides, advice and tips, visit Avast Academy: https://www.avast.com/c-academy
• For more information about Avast visit: https://www.avast.com/en-gb/about and https://www.avast.com/company-faqs
• Follow us on Twitter: @Avast
• Join our LinkedIn community: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avast
• Visit our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/avast

Media Contact:
pr@avast.com

 

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SOURCE Avast Software, Inc.

FAQ

What were the main findings of Avast's February 2022 survey on elderly internet usage?

The survey found that only 42% of seniors aged 55 and older use the internet regularly, with usage decreasing with age.

How many seniors reported never using the internet according to Avast's survey?

27% of seniors surveyed reported never using the internet.

What are some reasons older adults avoid using the internet?

Reasons include lack of necessity (59%), finding it too complicated (42%), and fear of cyber risks (36%).

What percentage of seniors expressed a willingness to use the internet with help?

24% of non-users indicated they would consider using the internet if they received support from family or friends.

When was the Avast survey regarding elderly internet usage conducted?

The survey was conducted in September 2021 and released on February 17, 2022.