As technology rapidly advances, older adults face increasing risks of online fraud due to their limited digital literacy and lack of awareness about legal protections. This study examines the legal knowledge gap among elderly individuals in urban communities, focusing on their understanding of digital rights, cybersecurity laws, and fraud prevention. It draws on two key frameworks: Digital Literacy and Legal Awareness, which stresses the importance of knowing online rights, and Community Participation, which emphasizes the role of collective efforts in closing this gap. The research explores the experiences of elderly residents in Misu Wann 2 and Krang Sapan Khlong Tan communities in Watthana District, Bangkok, assessing their awareness of cyber fraud, identity theft, and scams. Surveys and interviews reveal that while many elderly individuals use digital platforms for communication and financial transactions, they lack awareness of cybersecurity laws, data protection policies, and official reporting channels. This makes them highly susceptible to scams and online exploitation. To address this issue, the study proposes a community-driven strategy combining legal education with digital skills training. Initiatives include accessible literacy programs, partnerships between public and private sectors, and community-based cybersecurity awareness campaigns. Policymakers, media professionals, and local leaders must collaborate to develop tailored educational initiatives that help elderly individuals safeguard themselves online. By fostering a strong legal-literacy network, this approach can empower older adults to navigate the digital world safely, reduce cyber risks, and ensure they can fully exercise their legal rights in an increasingly digital society.

Authors:
Rattaakkhatee Akkhateerathitiphum, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Chaiwatchara Promjittiphong, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Saichol Panyachit, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Phoobade Wanitchanon, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Jiranuwat Khamplew, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Assistant Professor Dr. Rattaakkhatee Akkhateerathitiphum is a legal scholar specializing in private law, currently serving as a lecturer in the Bachelor of Laws program at the Faculty of Social Science, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand. His expertise spans taxation law, consumer protection law, IT & digital law, and commercial law, making him a key contributor to legal education and research.

Dr. Rattaakkhatee earned his LL.B. from Assumption University in 2012 and pursued a Master of Laws in Taxation Law (International Program) at the same institution in 2016. With a strong academic foundation, he has established himself as a respected voice in legal academia.

Dedicated to nurturing future legal professionals, he actively engages in research, policy discussions, and curriculum development, ensuring students gain practical and theoretical legal insights. His commitment to legal scholarship and education continues to shape the evolving landscape of private law in Thailand.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

Bookmark