Digital Literacy Is Not a Guarantee, 30 Percent More Gen Z Cheated Scam

Threats of scams and spam that lurk Generation Z

SCAM and SPAM are now a real threat to the people of Indonesia. Not only the number of cases continues to increase, this fraud mode is also increasingly diverse. SCAM is a type of fraud that aims to trick the victim in order to provide personal information, sensitive data, or even money. Meanwhile, spam refers to messages or content that is sent in bulk, such as ads, promotions, or links that can be annoying and potentially dangerous.

Both are included in the form of digital fraud that can target anyone, including the younger generation. Although often considered as a victim of those who do not understand technology, Gen Z, which is known to be very digitally literate, remains vulnerable to scams and SPAM. A study conducted by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in 2024 shows that genes Z and millennials most often report losses due to digital fraud. This is reinforced by research by the American Cybersecurity Organization (NCA) in 2022, which found that Gen Z reported the most money loss or data due to digital fraud such as phishing, with a figure of 34 percent.

Reasons Gen Z Vulnerable to Scams

Gen Z, as the generation born and growing along with the development of internet technology, seems to be better prepared to face the digital world. However, their familiarity with technology has become a weak point. According to an analysis of the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), a high level of confidence in online platforms makes young people tend to ignore security risks. Many of them feel technology literate, so they are not aware of the growing potential for digital fraud.

In addition, there are several other factors that strengthen Gen Z’s vulnerability to digital fraud, including:

• High online intensity: Gen Z spends a lot of time in the digital world, from social media to shopping and entertainment platforms. This high exposure makes them potential targets for scams and SPAM.
• Sharing Excessive in Digital Space: One of Gen Z’s dangerous habits is to share personal information openly in digital space. Locations, hobbies, to the details of everyday life can make it easier for scammers to do profiling and manipulate their victims.
• FOMO Culture (Fear of Missing Out): The impetus to always be involved in the latest trends or attractive offers makes Gen Z more easily tempted by scams that promise fast rewards, such as discounts, fraudulent investments, giveaways, or fake job offers.
• Quick response without verification: Gen Z has a tendency to respond to information quickly without re-checking. This opens up a gap for them to get caught up in fraud, especially in the form of phishing or adverse links.

Tips to Avoid Digital Scams

Increasing digital literacy and awareness of cybersecurity is now a surefire way to avoid various online scams. The first step can be started by getting used to not easily sharing personal data, always verifying information, and recognizing the modes and characteristics of digital fraud.

In addition, it is also important to ensure the use of a digital platform that has a high security system. Some of the features that can be considered include end-to-end encryption, two-step verification (2FA), and a transparent and responsible privacy policy.

In this way, Gen Z can continue to exist and be active in the digital world without being an easy target for scammers. Raising risk awareness and understanding how to recognize signs of fraud will be the key to maintaining digital security in this increasingly modern era.