ISLAMABAD: Younger family members and friends are playing an increasingly important role in helping older people use digital services, with 88% of respondents in a regional Kaspersky survey saying they have assisted elderly relatives or friends with technology.
The 2026 survey, covering 5,000 respondents across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Türkiye and South Africa, found that support ranges from installing applications and managing social media accounts to online banking, privacy settings and e-government services.
Half of those surveyed said they regularly provide IT support to older relatives or friends, while another 38% said they offer assistance occasionally when requested.
Installing Apps Tops Digital Support
Installing applications was the most common form of assistance, cited by 52% of respondents, while 50% said they help older people manage social media accounts.
The findings also showed significant reliance on family members for more sensitive online activities.
Around 43% of respondents said they assist elderly relatives or friends with online transactions and banking software, while 41% help configure privacy settings. Another 40% provide assistance with e-government services.
Despite cybersecurity concerns affecting older internet users, only 27% of respondents said they help elderly relatives install security software.
Kaspersky said the finding could indicate that cybersecurity protection is underestimated, considered too complex or not treated as a priority when devices are being set up.
Simpler Digital Tools Could Help Older Users
When respondents were asked what could improve cybersecurity and digital confidence among older generations, 33% identified simpler and more intuitive digital tools and software as the most important measure.
Another 27% called for greater education about cyber risks and protective measures, while 23% highlighted the need for more active family involvement in setting up devices and installing applications.
“Older generations are becoming more active online, but many still rely heavily on younger relatives and friends to navigate digital services safely,” said Seifallah Jedidi, Head of Consumer Channel in the Middle East, Türkiye and Africa at Kaspersky.
“Improving digital literacy, simplifying interfaces and encouraging cybersecurity awareness can help make technology more inclusive and safer for everyone.”
Kaspersky Shares Online Safety Recommendations
Kaspersky recommended that users keep themselves informed about common scams and online threats targeting older people and share that knowledge with elderly relatives and friends.
The cybersecurity company advised families to explain how to identify suspicious links, messages and calls, and why passwords and security codes should never be shared.
It also recommended using security software capable of protecting against scams, phishing and malware, while helping older users create strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
The survey was conducted at Kaspersky’s request in 2026 and was based on 5,000 interviews across five countries: the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Türkiye and South Africa.
