Knowledge and Awareness of Digital Threats: Asymmetry Between Perceived Vulnerability and Severity Among Generation Z

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technologies has increased users’ exposure to cybersecurity threats, making knowledge and awareness critical components of safe participation in digital environments. This study aims to assess the level of knowledge and awareness of digital threats among Generation Z, with a particular focus on the asymmetry between perceived vulnerability and perceived severity. The research is based on a quantitative survey conducted using the CAWI method among 770 respondents. The analysis includes both descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests (Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis) to examine differences across socio-demographic characteristics. The results indicate a clear asymmetry in risk perception: while respondents assess their vulnerability to cyber threats as moderate, they simultaneously perceive the potential consequences as highly severe. Additionally, perceived vulnerability varies significantly across selected socio-demographic variables, whereas perceived severity remains relatively uniform. These findings suggest that Generation Z demonstrates a differentiated structure of cybersecurity awareness, characterized by a stronger internalization of risk consequences than personal exposure. The study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the relationship between perceived vulnerability and severity in the context of digital threats. The findings have practical implications for the design of educational and awareness-raising initiatives, highlighting the need to strengthen users’ perception of their own exposure to cyber risks.