Among the trends that characterized the growth of internet use in the last decade are the increasing number of internet users aged 65 and over, and the escalation of various forms of online victimization. Due to their slower adoption of different online activities, older adults are considered one of the most vulnerable groups. Although they may not be the most frequent victims of online victimization, its negative effects may lead them to lose interest in expanding their online activities. This master's thesis presents a narrative literature review, aiming to provide a detailed insight into past empirical studies that have explored the forms, factors, and consequences of online victimization among older adults. The results show that phishing is the most frequently analysed form of online victimization in this age group. Psychosocial factors and a lack of knowledge about online safety are the most empirically researched factors. In terms of consequences, past studies have mainly examined the (negative) financial outcomes faced by older adults from online scams and fraud. Our study also shows that certain aspects of the forms, factors and consequences of online victimization of older internet users have been overlooked in the literature so far. This limits the implementation of effective policy interventions that would help overcome the issues associated with online victimization in later life. In the long term, addressing these challenges seems to be vital for increasing the digital inclusion of older adults.
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