Abstract

Cybersecurity risks are increasing with studies showing that midlife users are one of the highest demographics for recorded cybercrime. Yet despite studies on generational differences, few have considered this cohort. Drawing on Protection Motivation Theory (with Technology Threat Avoidance Theory), this study explores cybersecurity perceptions and avoidance motivation of midlife users.

Survey data from 133 midlife users was used to assess how perceived threat and coping appraisals influence avoidance motivation and security behaviours. The results showed that for persons who had not experienced a cybersecurity incident (e.g. malware, virus attack), perceived severity and self-efficacy significantly influenced avoidance motivation, while perceived vulnerability and response efficacy did not. For those who had experienced a cybersecurity incident, response efficacy was positively related to avoidance motivation, whereas perceived vulnerability showed an unexpected negative association.

The findings show experience-based differences in how midlife users assess and respond to cyber threats, emphasizing that motivation alone does not lead to protective behavior. Practically, the findings highlight the need to support midlife users through interventions that build confidence, and which address deterrents that impede protective actions.

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