BACKGROUND: Cyber attacks and threats have rapidly increased due to technological advancement in society. Seniors are a prime target because of their isolation, lack of knowledge, and passiveness of technological comprehension. As a result, seniors are vulnerable to cyber actors through scams, social engineering, and social media attacks.

With the assistance of Kappa Lambda, Mu Lambda, and Kappa Xi Lambda chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, we partnered to educate senior brothers about these cyber threats and recommend solutions to comprehend cybersecurity.

METHODS:  This initial step establishes the various types of cyber threats that focus on senior individuals as targets.  Utilizing Google Scholar, search for peer-reviewed articles, books, and other scholarly sources related to scams, social engineering, and social media attacks.  It aids in presenting my discoveries in a structured and well-organized manner supported by clear citations for all sources and a glossary. It demonstrates the logical expression of communication in common terms.

RESULTS:  Research on the effects of cyber attacks on senior individuals focused on increased crime because of their availability, loneliness, limited tech-savviness, and online presence with limited confidence.  More recent studies have expanded this focus to explore the broader impact of technological advancement on seniors and their emotional state.

CONCLUSION: This presentation aimed to examine cyber scams, social engineering, and social media attacks on senior individuals and provide cyber awareness in layman’s terms. As a result, it promotes confidence and resources for seniors to implement cybersecurity practices.

This is the first of a three-part virtual presentation to promote cyber awareness to seniors