A recent report from Aviva has found that more than a million people over the age of 45 have fallen victim to email scams. 

Aviva’s Real Retirement Report looked into which age group over the age of 45 was targeted the most, their attitude towards technology and the impact it has on their life. 

The report found that a huge 73% of over-45s in the UK (approximately 20.6 million people) with internet access have been targeted by email scams, with 6% (approximately 1.24 million people) of these falling victim to such scams.

The report also found that 60% of this age group have been targeted with fraud by telephone with 7% stating they have been a victim of phone scams. This also means that this age group is 22% more likely to be targeted online rather than by phone.

Aviva’s research also looked into if the chances of being targeted were higher dependent on age. The results showed that in comparison to over-45s, over-75s had 3% more chance for being targeted by online, but only 1% more likely to fall victim to the scam. They are also 9% more likely to be targeted by phone and 3% more likely to fall victim to the scam.

The Real Retirement Report also showed a sense of vulnerability towards technology from the chosen age groups, with almost a quarter (24%) of over-65s feeling vulnerable as a result of technologies growing influence, but only one sixth of over-45s feeling excluded by technology, showing a keenness to use technology to better their lives but still some cautiousness around online scams and how to avoid the pitfalls.

Rodney Prezeau offered his comments on the results, he said “Our research dispels the myth that older generations are technophobes. However, it also highlights the security risks that come with lives that are increasingly led or supported by online services. The government is rightly taking action to combat the threat of pension cold-callers in later life, but it is important we don’t forget the additional threats that exist in the digital age.

Prezeau went on to say “The fact that digital advances have had a welcome impact in so many areas of life has left many baby boomers feeling their retirement plans and savings habits would have benefitted from today’s technology. As we move pensions out of the Stone Age and make increasing use of online tools, it is vital we ensure that consumers are fully safeguarded and supported so more people are encouraged to engage with their savings.”