Senior citizens are becoming an increasingly significant segment in the digital ecosystem. At the same time, senior citizens are especially vulnerable: the National Crime Records Bureau reports an 86 percent rise in cybercrimes targeting seniors between 2020 and 2022, emphasising the growing prevalence of phishing, scams, and fraudulent advertisements aimed at this demographic.
Despite the pressing security concerns, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the issues faced by seniors. To this end, we conducted a dipstick survey over January and February 2025 to assess online behaviour and fraud vulnerability among 100 individuals aged 60 and above. This report summarises the findings, and elaborates on targeted key aspects of their digital engagement, exposure to fraudulent activities, financial and emotional consequences, and mitigation practices. The report also identifies areas for policy interventions to secure Indian senior citizens.
