Did you know that individuals aged 50 and older are more likely to fall victim to online scams than any other age group? 

As technology evolves, so do the tactics used by criminals, who now employ artificial intelligence to create sophisticated scams that can deceive even the most vigilant among us. CNBC Africa reports that the African continent risks losing about U$10 trillion in financial crimes linked to cyber-attacks if the continent does not step up its preparedness. 

In July 2024, the Namibian government reported a staggering 2.7 million cyberattacks recorded in 2022, averaging around 7 000 attacks per day. During the same month, Interpol announced the dismantling of a complex international cybercrime network operating from Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. This network had been involved in various schemes, including phishing, investment scams, fraudulent online shops, romance scams, and impersonation fraud targeting victims worldwide. These alarming developments underscore the critical need for tech-savvy Namibians to guide our parents, uncles, aunts, and other elders in understanding and countering these digital threats, which pose significant risks to both their finances and mental well-being. 

Why are our elders vulnerable? 

In the African and Namibian context, the age group 50-80 years old are a pivotal generation in our history. They represent a period of immense global transition, with most of them growing up in a pre-digital world and experiencing major historical shifts like liberation struggles, independence and societal restructuring. 

You may call this age group the traditional parents, based on how they connect the past and the present. This term highlights their role in carrying traditions while navigating modernity. Alternatively, you could refer to them as the independence era parents in Namibia, focusing on their lived experiences during the nation’s transformative years. For the sake of brevity, let’s call them elder parents. 

Elderly parents often find themselves at a disadvantage in the digital world for several reasons. Many may not be as familiar with technology as younger generations, making them more susceptible to fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information by masquerading as trustworthy entities. These scams can take various forms, from deceptive emails to fake websites designed to look legitimate. Online dating apps also pose a significant threat to everyone across all age groups. With the rise of AI, cybercriminals can digitally clone someone’s image or voice, creating highly convincing fake profiles or deepfake content, which eliminates the need for any real human interaction during the scam. This automation makes these schemes even more threatening than traditional scams. Additionally, social engineering tactics used by cybercriminals exploit emotional triggers, such as fear or urgency, to manipulate individuals into divulging personal information. 

t is crucial for everyone to recognise these cybersecurity vulnerabilities and act. As the digital tech-curious generation, it is our responsibility to educate our elders about basic yet critical cybersecurity skills. By sharing our knowledge and resources, we can help them protect themselves from potential cyber threats. The following rules are a must to teach our parents in 2025: 

ABC:

A: Always log out 

Encourage the elders to always log out of devices and accounts after use, especially on shared computers or when connected to public Wi-Fi networks. Public Wi-Fi is particularly risky as it often lacks proper security measures, making it easier for cybercriminals to intercept sensitive information, such as login credentials or banking details. Staying logged in can expose personal data and increase the risk of unauthorised access. Additionally, remind them that phone apps often run in the background even when closed. Logging out of bank apps and other sensitive platforms immediately after use is essential. Regularly updating passwords is also crucial, as online data breaches and leaks are increasingly common. 

B: Be suspicious 

Encourage elders to approach unexpected emails, messages, or calls with caution. Red flags include poor grammar, unsolicited requests for personal information, or messages designed to create a false sense of urgency. Remind them that questioning the legitimacy of such communication is not only acceptable but necessary. Forwarding suspicious messages to tech-savvy family members or friends for verification can also be helpful. With deepfakes becoming increasingly realistic, having a second opinion acts as an additional layer of security. Most importantly, they should never respond to suspicious emails or messages, as doing so can confirm their contact details to scammers, potentially opening the door to more targeted attacks. Instead, they should delete such messages or report them if the platform allows. 

C: Contact your bank 

Highlight the importance of contacting the bank immediately when fraud or notice unusual transactions on accounts. Quick action can significantly reduce potential financial damage and prevent further unauthorised activity. Most banks have dedicated fraud departments and 24/7 helplines to assist customers in addressing such issues quickly. They can freeze accounts, reverse unauthorised transactions, or guide on additional security measures like activating transaction alerts or using secure banking apps. Encourage the elders to remain vigilant and report concerns without delay. 

By mastering these ABCs of cybersecurity, we lay a solid foundation for protecting our elder parents from online threats. However, true security demands continuous education, and open communication within our communities. 

As cybercrime escalates, it is crucial that Namibian families equip elder parents with the skills to navigate digital threats. By teaching them essential cybersecurity practices and fostering open discussions about online safety, we not only protect their finances and well-being but also build a culture of vigilance. Let us prepare our elders for tomorrow’s challenges, creating a safer digital future for Namibians across all generations. 

*Leake Ileka is a Chevening Alumnus and 2024 graduate of Bournemouth University, England, where he completed his Master’s in Intellectual Property Law. For more details, visit his LinkedIn profile.