From video calls to exchanging memes
Kaspersky reveals how digitalisation is influencing family life
While digitalisation offers unprecedented convenience and flexibility in family communication, Kaspersky experts warn that this increased online connectivity demands a heightened awareness of digital safety practices and the protection of devices.
Kaspersky’s latest global research shows that digital communication has become the backbone of modern family life, with almost everyone now connecting online. Globally, 86% of respondents communicate with family members via messaging apps, 58% use regular video calls, and 44% share streaming service accounts. Southern Africa mirrors this trend closely, with 91% using messaging apps, 68% making video calls, and 53% sharing streaming subscriptions.While digitalisation has made it easier than ever for families to stay connected across distances, Kaspersky warns that this growing reliance on online platforms also increases exposure to cyber risks.
Messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and Viber dominate family communication, particularly among people aged 35–54, where 89% globally use them regularly. Video calls, though valuable, are less popular overall. Social media and messaging platforms are also widely used to share posts and memes, with younger adults (18–34) leading this trend, highlighting how humour and shared content now play a key role in family bonding.
Older adults are increasingly active online as well, with 85% globally using messaging apps to communicate with family. However, Kaspersky cautions that this group is often more vulnerable to online scams and fraud. Educating older relatives about suspicious links, phishing attempts and secure device use is becoming essential for family-wide digital safety.
Even experienced users face growing cyber threats, from phishing messages disguised as trusted contacts to sophisticated social engineering attacks. Kaspersky advises families to enable two-factor authentication, use strong and unique passwords for each account, remain cautious of unexpected links or attachments, and install reliable security software with anti-phishing protection.
The research also highlights risks linked to shared family accounts. While 70% of families globally watch movies together and many share streaming subscriptions, using the same login details across multiple devices increases vulnerability. If one device is compromised, attackers can gain access to the entire account and potentially other linked services. Password reuse further amplifies the risk, making password managers a recommended tool for families.
“As family life moves increasingly online, it creates wonderful opportunities to stay connected, but it also introduces new risks,” says Marina Titova, Vice President for Consumer Business at Kaspersky. “Children and older relatives are especially vulnerable, so protecting digital privacy is an important way of caring for your loved ones.”
The study was conducted in November 2025, surveying 3,000 respondents across 15 countries, including South Africa, the UK, Germany and the UAE. - Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.
