Gen Z’s Cybersecurity Complacency Raises Alarm

Uploaded on 2025-08-08 in NEWS-Cybersecurity News, FREE TO VIEW

A new study from global consumer insights platform GWI has revealed a concerning trend: Generation Z, often hailed as digital natives, is significantly less vigilant about cybersecurity than older generations. Despite growing up in a hyper-connected world, many Gen Zers neglect basic security practices, potentially exposing themselves to cyber risks.

The GWI data highlights a stark generational divide in cybersecurity habits. Only 30% of Gen Zers regularly change their passwords, compared to 42% of Baby Boomers.

Similarly, just 43% keep their software and devices updated, lagging behind 51% of Boomers. Antivirus software, a cornerstone of digital protection, is installed by only 36% of Gen Z, further underscoring their lax approach.

Passwords & Updates Neglected

Gen Z’s preference for convenience over security extends to everyday behaviours. Only 35% avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi, compared to 48% of Boomers, and just 40% regularly check their accounts for suspicious activity, against 54% of Boomers. While Gen Z leads in adopting two-factor authentication (58%), their overall concern about cyber threats is lower, with only 44% expressing significant worry compared to 49% of Boomers.

AI Adoption Outpaces Security Awareness

The study also reveals Gen Z’s growing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI), which may exacerbate their cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Eighteen percent of Gen Zers feel comfortable with AI agents acting on their behalf, compared to just 4% of Boomers. Only 8% of Gen Z express discomfort with AI autonomy, against 12% of Boomers.

In practical applications, 24% of Gen Z AI users rely on the technology for health-related information, and 22% use it for financial advice. In the workplace, 24% are comfortable with AI completing tasks, more than double the 11% of Boomers. This enthusiasm for AI, while innovative, contrasts sharply with their neglect of basic digital security measures.

Workplace Expectations vs. Personal Habits

Despite their personal lapses, Gen Z acknowledges the importance of cybersecurity in professional settings. Nine in ten (91%) prioritise staff training on data security, followed closely by protecting against unauthorised access (90%) and secure data storage (89%). However, the data suggests Gen Z expects employers to enforce these measures rather than taking personal responsibility. As cyber attacks rise, this reliance could pose risks as Gen Z enters the workforce in greater numbers.

A Culture Of Convenience

Experts attribute Gen Z’s cybersecurity complacency to their dependence on smartphones, where features like face ID, auto-login, and password managers minimise active engagement with security. Matt Smith, a data journalist at GWI, notes: “Gen Z has grown up with devices that auto-fill passwords and sync data seamlessly, creating a false sense of safety. Many lack the fundamental tech skills to respond when things go wrong.”

Smith also points to cultural trends like the rise of “dumb phones” and digital detoxes, suggesting Gen Z’s relationship with technology is conflicted. “They’re fluent in trends but often skip the basics,” he says.

The findings highlight the need for targeted cybersecurity education for Gen Z. As they increasingly rely on AI and digital platforms, fostering proactive security habits will be crucial to safeguarding their personal and professional data.

Without intervention, their digital dependence without discipline could leave them vulnerable in an era of escalating cyber threats.

Image: Marta Klement

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