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The use of IT-safety and coping measures against cybercrimes among older adults in Hong Kong: An application of cyber routine activity theory
Date Issued
2026
Publisher
Frontiers Media SA
Journal
ISSN
2297-7775
Citation
Frontiers in Sociology, 2026, vol. 11, article no. 1739787.
Description
Open access
Type
Peer Reviewed Journal Article
Abstract
Introduction
Older adults are disproportionately vulnerable to cybercrimes such as online and telephone scams. In Hong Kong, the rapid growth in smartphone ownership among adults aged 65 or above has coincided with an increase in cybercrime victimization within this population. However, limited research has examined the specific forms of cybercrimes older adults encounter and how they respond to them in everyday contexts.
Methods
Guided by Cyber Routine Activity Theory (CRAT), this qualitative study explores older adults' experiences of cybercrimes and their coping strategies. Twenty-three focus groups involving 142 adults aged 55 or older were conducted in Hong Kong between May and August 2023. Data was analyzed using deductive and inductive thematic analysis with NVivo 15.
Findings
Findings indicate that impersonation of close relatives, information leakage, and “guess who I am” scams are the most common cybercrimes faced by older adults. Target suitability is shaped by daily smartphone routines and socio-emotional and relational expectations, while motivated offenders employ adaptive, low-cost tactics. Participants relied on both physical and social forms of guardianship, including peer support from individuals with higher digital literacy and the use of social knowledge to reduce scam risks.
Discussion
The study extends CRAT by highlighting the role of socio-emotional commitments rooted in Confucian collectivist culture and by conceptualizing multi-layered and distributed social guardianship. Policy implications at individual, family, and societal levels are discussed.
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