Different Scams Impact Different Audiences, Which Means You Need to Prepare for All of Them

During the holiday season, the Federal Trade Commission shared some data that showed that members of Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z are all more likely to fall for online shopping scams than those over the age of 60…and not by a little, either. Those under that age are apparently 86 percent more likely to fall for these scams.

Let’s examine some of the findings of this report, and what they tell us about the state of cybersecurity.

Here’s the Hard Truth: Different Types of Scams are More Effective with Different Age Demographics

According to the FTC, scams are universally effective. However, one form of scam may be more effective to one generational subset, while another might impact a different one.

For instance, the FTC’s research saw that younger generations were far more prone to online shopping fraud, investment scams, and job scams. Meanwhile, older generations were more successfully targeted by tech support scams and sweepstakes scams.

It also needs to be said that different audiences are frequently targeted using different means, as well. Younger Millennials and members of Generation Z are frequently targeted by scams that begin on social media, while Generation X and Baby Boomers are frequently victimized by phone scams.

It Doesn’t Matter What Age Someone Is, They’re Just as Vulnerable to Cyberattacks and Scams

With so many scams out there utilizing different mediums and platforms to target their intended victims, it’s important that everyone is prepared to spot potential threats and react to them appropriately…and this is all the more important in the business.  From a professional perspective, your employees are your first line of defense.  Make sure that, no matter their age, they are educated when it comes to cyber scams and how to avoid them.

Fortunately, businesses in Cleveland can turn to the professionals at Ashton Solutions for assistance in preparing their teams to deal with assorted cybersecurity threats. Give us a call at 216 397-4080 to learn more about our cybersecurity services.