Mobile Privacy and Security for Older Adults: A Systematic Review of Concerns, Risks, Usability, and Pathways for Support

Despite the benefits of the widespread adoption of mobile technologies, older adults continue to face significant security and privacy challenges in their use of mobile devices, due to several factors. This often results in the avoidance of certain security and privacy mechanisms, leaving many older adults vulnerable to digital security challenges and privacy risks. This paper examines 41 peer-reviewed studies to investigate how older adults view and control mobile security and privacy mechanisms, risks, and challenges. We examine the perceptions around mobile security and privacy mechanisms and educational and support strategies. Our findings highlight how closely security and privacy concerns relate to system design and support, and user knowledge. It also emphasizes promising methods such as embedded social learning, tailored training, and policy recommendations to address highlighted issues, allowing developers and policymakers to more effectively instill confidence and facilitate better digital inclusion and mobile security and privacy of older adults.