• Survey found only 33% of older adults feel confident online.
  • Digital exclusion shifts from access problem to confidence barrier.

What happened

Vodafone has warned that weak digital confidence among older people is holding back the digital economy, according to findings published via the company.

The research, based on a survey of 6,000 people aged over 55 across Europe, shows that 91% of older adults use digital devices daily. However, usage does not translate into confidence. Only one in three feel comfortable navigating new tools independently.

Around 69% of respondents said they lack confidence or worry about making mistakes when using digital services. Meanwhile, 55% believe technology is advancing too quickly to keep up.

Security concerns also weigh heavily. Some 62% fear misuse of personal data online, while many express anxiety about scams and privacy risks.

Vodafone stressed that digital exclusion is shifting from access to confidence. It called for targeted training, simpler interfaces and more human-centred design to improve engagement.

Why it’s important

The confidence gap has clear economic consequences. As healthcare, banking and public services move online, older adults risk exclusion despite having access. This shifts the challenge from connectivity to usage, limiting the value of digital infrastructure.

Vodafone argues that improving confidence could unlock broader participation in the digital economy. Access alone no longer guarantees engagement.

The findings position digital inclusion as a growth lever. Telecom operators can expand service adoption by building trust and skills, driving higher usage and long-term customer value.

The data also signals a structural constraint. Without addressing trust and usability, adoption will remain uneven. Vodafone’s warning suggests future growth depends not just on infrastructure, but on users’ ability to participate confidently.

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