Despite spending more time online and feeling more confident in the digital world, Generation Z is less likely than others to use antivirus software on mobile devices or to regularly change passwords, according to new research conducted by Kaspersky’s internal market research center with 7.200 participants worldwide.
Gen Z spends more time online than any other generation. New Kaspersky research reveals that 57% of them spend more time online than offline – the highest percentage of all generations surveyed. Smartphones are central to their daily lives, with 67% citing them as the main device they use to access the internet regularly.
This constant connectivity comes with significant levels of self-confidence. Nearly six in ten Gen Z respondents (59%) say they feel comfortable and confident in the digital environment. However, only 28% consider themselves to have advanced digital skills, highlighting the gap between familiarity with technology and the knowledge needed to effectively manage digital risks.
This confidence is not always accompanied by corresponding protection measures. Only 27% of Gen Z respondents use antivirus software on their mobile devices, a significantly lower percentage than other generations. Frequent password changes are also less likely among this generation.
The consequences are already evident. More than half of Gen Z (52%) say they have already experienced attacks on their devices, online accounts or personal data. Specifically, 17% have had their social media account compromised, while 12% have lost access to a gaming account.
Smartphones host Gen Z's most valuable data, but their protection remains limited
The survey also shows that smartphones contain some of Gen Z’s most valuable information. 38% of respondents consider photos and personal documents stored on their device to be absolutely critical. Compared to other generations, Gen Z places a higher value on personal documents stored on their phones. At the same time, 30% consider passwords and account logins to be extremely important.
Despite the importance of this information, data stored on smartphones is not always adequately protected. Consumer use of digital life protection solutions remains limited, particularly among Gen Z, with only 28% regularly backing up important data from their mobile devices.
This creates risks that go beyond the loss of a device. A compromised smartphone can give cybercriminals access to personal photos, identification documents, email accounts, social media profiles, financial services, and many other elements of a user’s digital life.
Everyday protection must keep up with everyday digital habits
Kaspersky recommends that users treat cybersecurity as an integral part of their daily digital routine and not as something they only worry about after an incident.
A comprehensive security solution can protect devices from malware, phishing attacks, and other online threats. As smartphones are now the primary access device for many Gen Z users, protection should cover both mobile devices and desktops or laptops.
Using a specialized tool helps users create strong and unique passwords for each account and store them securely, thus limiting the impact of a potential password hack or leak.
When using public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, universities, or other public places, a reliable VPN offers an extra layer of privacy, encrypting internet traffic and helping to protect the data being transmitted.
Especially for Gen Z, Kaspersky created the interactive online game “ Case 404 ”. In this adventure, players take on the role of a cyber-detective, investigating fictional cases inspired by real-life digital threats and learning to recognize scams, phishing attempts and account takeover techniques that are often encountered in the gaming world. With “Case 404”, Kaspersky does not limit itself to informing users, but equips them with the right mindset and the necessary skills to stay safe while enjoying what they love.
“Gen Z has grown up online, so digital services often seem familiar and easy to use. However, familiarity should not be confused with security expertise. Just because someone is comfortable using apps, platforms, and devices doesn’t necessarily mean they can recognize a scam, manage their passwords securely, or effectively protect their personal data,” said Irina Ermilova, Vice President for Consumer Product Management at Kaspersky. “The findings show that cybersecurity tools and good practices need to become a natural part of everyday digital life, just like messaging, gaming, or using social media.”
*The survey was conducted by Kaspersky Market Research Center in March 2026. 7.200 respondents from 18 countries participated: Brazil, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, and Vietnam.
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