Abstract

This study investigates how vulnerable populations achieve empowered digital safety through distinct combinations of personal, social, and institutional conditions. Drawing on survey data from 575 respondents across six vulnerable groups in Australasia, we applied fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) within a Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) framework. The results reveal multiple equifinal pathways to empowerment, highlighting the consistent role of stakeholder support and personal digital safety practices. However, subgroup analyses demonstrate important variations that cultural influence was decisive for Indigenous users, while NGO and educational support were central for rural and elderly participants. Awareness and compliance emerged as broadly core but not sufficient alone, and family support was consistently peripheral. The findings advance theory by reframing empowerment as a systemic capability and inform practice by underscoring the need for contextually tailored interventions.

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