Gen Z has a cyber hygiene problem

"Despite their reputation as digital natives, Gen Z is pretty poor when it comes to cybersecurity practices. Analysis from consumer insights platform GWI found that while many in this demographic have grown up online, only three-in-ten have made a habit of regularly changing their passwords compared to 42% of Baby Boomers. They're also the generation least likely to keep software and devices up to date, with only 43% bothering. Gen Z was found lacking in other basic cyber hygiene practices, the study noted."

"They're more likely than Boomers to feel extremely or very comfortable with AI agents taking action on their behalf, at 18%, compared with just 4% of Boomers. By contrast, only 8% of Gen Z say they're not at all comfortable with AI agents, compared with 12% of Boomers. Notably, many said they often rely on AI for important decision-making, with 24% using it for health-related information and 22% for financial advice."

Gen Z exhibits weaker cyber hygiene than older generations: only 30% regularly change passwords versus 42% of Baby Boomers, and only 43% keep software and devices updated. Antivirus adoption is low at 36%, while 58% use two-factor authentication. Gen Zers take more risks, with only 35% avoiding insecure public Wi‑Fi and 40% checking accounts for suspicious activity. Only 44% express high concern about cyber threats. Gen Z shows greater comfort trusting AI for decisions and tasks, and a large majority supports workplace data security training as a priority.

Read at IT Pro