A new global study by Kaspersky shows that families are increasingly relying on digital platforms to stay connected, a trend that is strengthening relationships but also creating new cybersecurity risks for users of all ages.
The research, based on a multi-country survey conducted in November 2025, found that online family connectivity has become nearly universal, with messaging apps, video calls, and shared streaming accounts now central to everyday family interaction. Experts warn that while these tools make communication easier, they also expose families to scams, account breaches, and privacy risks if digital safety is not properly managed.
The study revealed that 86% of respondents use messaging applications to communicate with family members, making it the most common form of digital interaction. Video calls are also widely used, with 58% of participants saying they regularly connect with relatives through video platforms.
Shared digital habits across age groups
According to the findings, people aged 35 to 54 are the most digitally engaged when it comes to family communication, with 89% in this group relying on messaging apps. Exchanging memes, posts, and other content through social media and messengers was also common, with 53% of respondents using this method to stay connected.
Younger adults aged 18 to 34 were the most active in sharing online content with family members, with 58% reporting regular exchanges of posts and memes, highlighting the role of shared digital culture in family bonding.
Nearly 90% of phishing attacks aim to steal online account credentials, Kaspersky finds
Older family members remain less digitally active overall
The survey found that people aged over 55 are generally less active online compared to younger age groups. However, 85% of respondents in this group still use messaging apps to communicate with family, while 42% said they exchange posts or memes on social media.
Kaspersky noted that despite growing digital participation among older users, this group may be more vulnerable to online scams and cyber threats, underscoring the importance of digital awareness and basic security practices within families.
Streaming and shared accounts increase exposure to risk
Watching movies together remains a popular family activity, with 70% of families preferring shared viewing experiences. Around 44% of respondents said they use shared streaming service accounts with family members, while online gaming was less common, cited by 35% of participants.
The study warned that shared accounts, particularly when protected by a single password, can increase the risk of unauthorized access. If one family member’s device is compromised, attackers may gain access to shared services and potentially other linked accounts.
Cybersecurity awareness remains essential
Kaspersky said that as family communication increasingly moves online, cyber risks such as phishing, social engineering, and account takeovers are becoming more common within personal communication channels. The company advised users to adopt basic digital safety measures, including strong and unique passwords, two-factor authentication, and caution when opening links or attachments.
Commenting on the findings, Marina Titova, Vice President for Consumer Business at Kaspersky, said that protecting digital privacy has become an important part of caring for family members, particularly children and older relatives who may be more exposed to online risks.
The survey was conducted among 3,000 respondents across 15 countries, including Pakistan, the UK, Turkey, China, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, providing a broad snapshot of modern family life in the digital age.
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