Gen Z spends more time online than any other generation, but that confidence is not always matched by strong cybersecurity habits, according to new research by Kaspersky. The study found that 57% of Gen Z spend more time online than offline, with 67% relying primarily on smartphones for internet access, a press release said.

While 59% of Gen Z feel confident navigating the digital world, only 28% consider their digital skills advanced. This gap is reflected in their security practices. Just 27% use antivirus software on their smartphones, fewer than other generations, and they are also less likely to update passwords regularly.

The risks are already evident. More than half (52%) have experienced cyberattacks affecting their devices, accounts or personal data. Among them, 17% have had a social media account hacked, while 12% have lost access to a gaming account.

Smartphones store some of Gen Z’s most valuable information, including photos and personal documents (38% each), as well as passwords and login credentials (30%). Despite this, only 28% regularly back up important smartphone data, increasing the risk of losing sensitive information if a device is compromised.

Kaspersky advises users to make cybersecurity part of their daily routine by using comprehensive security solutions, password managers, caller identification tools and VPNs when using public Wi-Fi. To help younger users build cybersecurity skills, Kaspersky has also introduced “Case 404,” an interactive online game that teaches players to recognize scams, phishing attempts and account takeover tactics through real-world-inspired cyber investigations. 

“Gen Z has grown up online, so digital services often feel intuitive and familiar to them. However, familiarity should not be confused with security expertise. Being able to navigate apps, platforms and devices confidently does not necessarily mean being able to identify scams, manage passwords securely or protect personal data,” said Irina Ermilova, Vice President for Consumer Product Management at Kaspersky. “The findings show that cybersecurity tools and habits need to become as natural part of everyday digital life as messaging, gaming or using social media.”

The study was conducted by Kaspersky’s market research center in March 2026. 7200 respondents from 18 countries (Brazil, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam) took part in the survey.