| Type | Definition | Related Concept |
| First-level digital divide | Emphasis on connectivity and digital device ownership | Internet access rate, fixed and mobile broadband access rate, 5G usage rate |
| Second-level digital divide | Emphasis on the ability to use the Internet and the way it is used | Internet application and service usage |
| Third-level digital divide | Emphasis on differences in results due to Internet use | Digital literacy |
The First-Level Digital Divide
- The first-level digital divide occurs mostly among Taiwanese people aged 70 and above, people with only elementary school education or below, and people living in the Yunlin, Chiayi and Nantou area, highlighting the lack of Internet access for these groups.
Source: 2023 Taiwan Internet Report conducted May 2 - May 20, the survey is weighted to be representative of Taiwan population. Sample: 2153 (All the samples of dual-frame telephone survey).
Analysis of Non-internet Users.
- For non-internet users in Taiwan, the primary reasons for not using the internet are "no need," "too old," and "unfamiliarity with internet devices." However, not all non-internet users lack the need for internet access. This survey shows that in the past year, 22.07% of non-internet users have asked friends, neighbors, or others for help with tasks that required internet access. These online needs mainly include "medical services" and "online shopping." Yet, there are 3.01% of non-internet users who have internet needs but no one to assist them. Their primary needs include "searching for information" and "medical services."
Source: 2023 Taiwan Internet Report conducted May 2 - May 20, the survey is weighted to be representative of Taiwan population. Sample: Internet non-users 262, Internet non-users who had someone assist with their online needs 69, and Internet non-users who had no one to assist with their online needs 8 (Samples of dual-frame telephone survey).
The Second-Level Digital Divide
- The second-level digital divide is also most pronounced among individuals aged 70 and above, those with an elementary school education or lower, and residents of the Yilan, Hualien, and Taitung regions, highlighting that this group has a lower rate of service application usage.
Source: 2023 Taiwan Internet Report conducted May 2 - May 20, the survey is weighted to be representative of Taiwan population. Q29 Sample: 2153 (All the samples of dual-frame telephone survey). Q11 Sample: 1084 (Landline samples).
The Third-Level Digital Divide
- The third-level digital divide is a problem that occurs in all groups. Enhancing the digital literacy of the public still requires efforts from various aspects, including education and advocacy.
48.34%
of internet userslack confidence in their ability toverify the authenticity of news.
49.50%
believe that seeing diverse political opinions on social media is not important.
63.35%
are reluctant to take corrective action when exposed to false information.
Source: 2023 Taiwan Internet Report conducted May 2 - May 20, the survey is weighted to be representative of Taiwan population. Q29 Sample: 2153 (All the samples of dual-frame telephone survey). Q11 Sample: 1084 (Landline samples).