Prevention of cybercrime among older adult smartphone users: the role of socio-environmental factors and digital capability

This study examined the prevention of cybercrime among older adult smartphone users, emphasizing the interaction of socio-environmental factors (SE), digital capability (DC), and cybercrime preventive behavior (CPB) within an integrated framework. A quantitative methodology was utilized, surveying 500 older adult respondents in the Metropolitan Region of Thailand, using stratified random sampling. using Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM) via jamovi. The structural model demonstrated an acceptable fit with the empirical data (χ2/df=4.90, RMSEA=0.088, SRMR=0.057, GFI=0.98). Findings revealed that SE has a strong, significant direct effect on both DC and CPB. However, DC did not significantly predict CPB, nor did it serve as a mediator. This highlights a crucial capability-behavior gap: possessing digital skills does not automatically translate into protective practices unless directly reinforced by a supportive socio-environmental context. Integrating social capital, socio-ecological, and self-efficacy theories, the study explains the complex pathways connecting social support to digital safety. The findings suggest a shift from solely technical training toward behavior-focused interventions, emphasizing family mentoring, scenario-based exercises, and community support to enhance cyber resilience in aging populations.