Functional and dysfunctional fear in cyberspace: A qualitative analysis of users and non-users of digital tools aged 65 and older

Population ageing and accelerated digitalization pose significant challenges for the digital inclusion of older adults, particularly from a criminological perspective. This study examines how fear of cybercrime and insecurity in the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) affect their participation in the digital society and expose them to the risk of online victimization. Through semi-structured interviews, it was identified that dysfunctional fear of cybercrime, prevalent among non-users of ICT, limits their access to digital benefits and exacerbates social isolation. On the other hand, frequent users, although less fearful, often use these tools without adequate training, increasing their objective risk of victimization due to a lack of protective measures. The lack of ICT training emerges as a critical barrier that reinforces digital exclusion and heightens perceived insecurity. This educational deficit, coupled with limited social support, reduces older adults’ ability to navigate digital environments safely. Although prior experiences of online victimization have a weak association with fear, the perception of insecurity plays a key role in exclusion and vulnerability. The importance of designing accessible digital literacy programmes tailored to the needs of older adults is highlighted. These programmes should focus on mitigating dysfunctional fears, strengthening digital competencies and promoting preventive strategies against cybercrime. Additionally, intuitive technological interfaces could help reduce digital inequalities and vulnerabilities, improving quality of life and resilience to online risks.