Over Half of Gen Z Report Cyberattacks
New research shows widespread digital threats facing young people globally despite heavy time spent online.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Cybersecurity
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Do you feel confident that your personal information is secure against modern online cyberattacks?
A new study reveals that 52% of Gen Z participants have experienced cyberattacks involving their personal data, devices, or online accounts. The findings highlight significant security gaps among a demographic that spends 57% of their time online.
Why it matters
As Gen Z relies heavily on smartphones for daily life, the lack of basic cybersecurity habits leaves a large portion of the population vulnerable to account breaches and data theft. Addressing these security deficits is essential for protecting the digital identities of the most connected generation.
Only 27% of surveyed Gen Z users utilize mobile antivirus software, and just 28% regularly back up important smartphone data. Meanwhile, 67% of participants rely on smartphones as their primary internet device.
The players
Kaspersky
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity company that provides threat intelligence and develops security software for individual and enterprise users.
The details
The survey of 7,200 individuals found that 17% of respondents had their social media accounts hacked, while 12% lost access to gaming accounts. In response to these vulnerabilities, Kaspersky introduced an interactive cyber-detective game called Case 404 to improve scam recognition skills.
Timeline
October 21, 2026: The research findings were officially released.
The Tech Race
The rise of gamified education programs reflects a shift in how cybersecurity firms attempt to engage digital-native audiences. This move aims to replace legacy training methods with active, interactive scenarios that better match the high-speed digital consumption habits of modern users.
The findings suggest that most users may be leaving their devices vulnerable by skipping basic software protections. Adopting mobile antivirus tools and setting up regular automated data backups can significantly reduce the risk of permanent account loss.
The takeaway
Younger users should prioritize securing their mobile accounts with two-factor authentication and regular backups to combat common hacking attempts. Improving digital hygiene is as important as spending time online for maintaining personal security.
Further reading
For more information on current digital threats, see the Cybersecurity section.
Live Poll
Do you feel confident that your personal information is secure against modern online cyberattacks?
