Generation Z's Cybersecurity Risks Due to Overconfidence

• •57% of Gen Z spend more time online than offline, the highest among all generations.
• •Only 27% of Gen Z use mobile antivirus software, indicating a lack of protective measures.
• •52% of Gen Z have experienced cyberattacks on their devices or accounts.

New research from Kaspersky reveals that Generation Z faces significant cybersecurity risks due to overconfidence in their digital skills. Despite 57% spending more time online than offline and 59% feeling confident in digital environments, only 27% use mobile antivirus software. Many Gen Z users do not regularly update their passwords, and 52% reported experiencing attacks on their devices or accounts. The study highlights a gap between perceived digital competence and actual cybersecurity practices. Smartphones, which store sensitive information, are often inadequately protected, with only 28% of users performing regular data backups. Kaspersky emphasizes the need for integrating cybersecurity into daily routines to mitigate risks from phishing and malware.