On cybersecurity, AI and digital inclusion for the over-55s
As part of the SILWERS project, we organised an expert forum on cybersecurity and the impact of artificial intelligence on the daily lives of older people in the digital world. The meeting brought together IT specialists in the field of cybersecurity and educators, who jointly analysed current online threats and those that may emerge in the near future.
The aim of the forum was to draw practical conclusions that will help to raise awareness of digital risks more effectively and support the digital inclusion of people aged 55 and over – so that new technologies are a real help to them, rather than a source of stress or exclusion.
Key topics of discussion
During the meeting, the experts worked to identify the key threats that internet users most frequently encounter today, as well as the trends that will shape the cyber-threat landscape in the near future. Particular attention was paid to situations in which older people may be more vulnerable to manipulation, scams or mistakes arising from a lack of confidence in the digital environment.
The discussions also touched upon the barriers preventing people aged 55 and over from using online services freely and safely. The panellists discussed, amongst other things, issues of trust in technology, fears of making costly mistakes (e.g. in online banking), as well as the psychological and social factors that influence a person’s willingness to learn new tools.
Digital literacy among older people and the role of AI
A key element of the forum was the discussion on the skills that are essential today for safe participation in digital life. Experts pointed out that, in addition to technical basics (such as recognising suspicious messages or verifying sources), habits are equally important: being cautious when sharing data, understanding the mechanisms of persuasion, and knowing how to ask for support when in doubt.
We also discussed artificial intelligence – both in terms of the risks (e.g. increasingly convincing scams and automatically generated content) and the benefits. The panellists shared real-life examples: stories of victims of cybercrime, but also cases where AI-based solutions genuinely help users (e.g. in terms of accessibility, simpler use of services, and support with everyday tasks).
For the SILWERS project, this expert forum represents an important step towards developing solutions and educational initiatives that address the real needs and concerns of older people. The findings gathered will help us to better design our communication, materials and recommendations regarding online safety and the confident and informed use of new technologies.
We will soon be publishing a summary of the key findings and the experts’ recommendations. We encourage you to follow our news – we will be back with specific guidance and the results of our work.