Fraud, ageism and fear: Understanding the unique risks faced by senior citizens online

By Georgie Gould

Ageism is not only a deeply ingrained societal bias; it is a powerful tool used by cybercriminals to target and financially exploit vulnerable senior citizens, say researchers from the University of Surrey

In 2022 alone, losses due to internet crimes targeted at older people soared to an estimated $4.7 billion in the US. The study, published in the Security Journal, investigated how senior citizens are increasingly falling prey to online fraud. 

The research team defines ageism in the context of cybercrime as the intentional targeting of older adults as potential victims, driven by the belief that they are wealthy and easy to deceive. This perception, according to the research team, not only reflects a societal bias but also poses a grave threat to the safety and wellbeing of seniors who are navigating an increasingly digital world.

Our research shows that ageism is a significant contributing factor to the cyber exploitation of older adults.  Ageism serves as a weapon used by online offenders to target older adults, while the concept of the ideal victim acts as society's shield in response to these reprehensible actions. The ideal victim helps to shape societal perceptions of vulnerability, steering focus away from victim-blaming and influencing how these crimes are addressed and understood. We need to gain a deeper understanding of their victims' vulnerabilities and establish more effective support systems. Dr Suleman Lazarus, A Fellow at the Centre of Excellence on Ageing (CEA)

The research team used a framework to examine the relationship between ageism, cybercrime, and the socioeconomic vulnerabilities of older adults. They analysed various factors that make older people more susceptible to online fraud, including cognitive decline, social isolation, and a heightened level of trust in others. 

One of the most striking findings is that the elderly are not just victims of cybercrime due to their financial status but also because of deeply rooted stereotypes that portray them as frail and gullible. These misconceptions perpetuate a dangerous narrative, making it easier for fraudsters to manipulate their victims through schemes that exploit their vulnerabilities.

Older adults are particularly at risk due to a combination of factors, such as limited technological proficiency and an increased fear of cybercrime, which often leads them to respond to fraudulent solicitations without sufficient scrutiny.

We need a more nuanced understanding of cybercrime that goes beyond mere technological advancements. By reframing cybercrime through the lens of socioeconomic factors, we must implement educational initiatives and support systems aimed at empowering older adults to protect themselves online.

"By confronting the ageist attitudes that underpin the targeting of our elderly population, we can begin to dismantle the structures that allow such exploitation to thrive. It is imperative that we come together as a community to safeguard the well-being of our senior citizens, ensuring they are seen not as victims but as valued members of society deserving of respect and protection.

Dr Michael McGuire, Senior Lecturer

[ENDS]

Note to editors:

Dr Suleman Lazarus and Dr Michael Mcguire are available for interview, please contact mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk to arrange.
The full paper is available in the Security Journal

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Dr Suleman Lazarus

A Fellow at the Centre of Excellence on Ageing (CEA)

Dr Michael McGuire

Senior Lecturer

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