Ali Padyab
Senior Lecturer in Informatics
In the project, the researchers identify which older people are at the greatest risk of being exposed to cybercrime and develop knowledge that helps society prevent crime and strengthen older people’s digital security.
"The research examines how older people can be protected against cybercrime in an increasingly digital society where such crimes are becoming more common."
Ali Padyab, Senior Lecturer in Informatics
What is cybercrime and why does it affect older people?
Cybercrime refers to crimes committed using computers or the internet, such as fraud, identity theft, and scam calls.
Older adults are particularly vulnerable because they often have lower levels of digital literacy, more limited social networks, and a higher level of trust in strangers online.
Consequences of cybercrime
It is important to study this issue because cybercrime can cause significant financial losses and negatively affect older adults’ health and independence. Despite the fact that the police and society implement various preventive initiatives, it is still unclear how well these efforts match older people’s needs and vulnerabilities.
Which older people are exposed to cybercrime and how does it happen?
The study will therefore examine which older adults are at the greatest risk of being targeted by cybercrime, how they are deceived, and how their everyday activities influence that risk. By using both statistical data and interviews with older adults, the research will provide important insights into which preventive measures are effective and what can be improved.
Aims to help the police design measures
This new knowledge is significant because it can help the police design better and more targeted measures to protect older adults from cybercrime, leading to increased safety and security for older people in an increasingly digital world.
Research team from several universities
- Ali Padyab, University of Skövde
- Mojgan Padyab, Umeå University
- Amir Rostami, Södertörn University
- Fredrik Snellman, Umeå University