Older Adults' Digital Security and Privacy Threats: A Survey

PhD Qualifying Examination


Title: "Older Adults' Digital Security and Privacy Threats: A Survey"

by

Miss Yue DENG


Abstract:

Technology adoption among older adults is steadily increasing across numerous 
application areas. However, due to factors such as limited technology 
literacy, age-related physical and cognitive declines, and the prevalence of 
targeted attacks, this demographic faces growing digital security and privacy 
risks. Scholars in Human-computer interaction (HCI) and Security and Privacy 
(S&P) communities have conducted extensive studies to better understand these 
risks in diverse contexts and proposed coping strategies. Despite this 
progress, there remains a need for a cohesive framework that consolidates 
threat models and support strategies to inform senior-friendly technology 
design. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic literature review in 
HCI and S&P venues to examine the specific security and privacy threats faced 
by older adults and identify design-oriented solutions. Methodologically, 
this study reviews the digital context, research method, and participants' 
characteristics within the existing literature on older adults' digital 
security and privacy, highlighting critical yet underexplored areas. 
Theoretically, this literature review compiles a comprehensive taxonomy of 
the threat and support model, offering general design principles to enhance 
digital security and privacy for older adults. Practically, this study 
provides actionable insights into the unique design needs of older users 
across various digital environments, supporting the creation of more 
inclusive and secure technology.


Date:                   Wednesday, 13 November 2024

Time:                   3:30pm - 5:30pm

Venue:                  Room 5501
                        Lifts 25/26

Committee Members:      Prof. Bo Li (Supervisor)
                        Prof. Mo Li (Chairperson)
                        Dr. Xiaojuan Ma
                        Dr. Wei Wang