Initial Success in Reducing the Digital Divide: Focus on Assistive Tech for Seniors
Survey data reveals that "advanced age" (46.15%) and "device unfamiliarity" (45.88%) are the main barriers to internet adoption among non-users in Taiwan. Notably, 8.94% of non-users express willingness to learn with proper assistance, indicating a need for continued digital education and support services.
Creating an "elderly-friendly" digital environment is essential for our aging society. This includes hardware solutions (enlarged screens, amplified audio, specialized input devices) and simplified interfaces (larger fonts, streamlined operations). While this remains a niche market commercially, government support is crucial for implementation.
The survey highlights that "communication with others" is the primary motivator for potential adoption. Therefore, digital literacy programs should prioritize teaching communication applications as an entry point for engaging elderly learners.
AI Literacy: Strong Awareness but Room for Growth in Practical Usage
ChatGPT adoption has increased modestly since its recent Taiwan market entry, presenting an opportunity to promote domestic Traditional Chinese AI models and expand presence in Chinese-language markets. AI technology users are predominantly under 40 or hold university degrees, indicating a need to expand focus to older users and those with lower educational backgrounds.
Educational programs should be tailored to different demographic groups, emphasizing hands-on practice with mainstream AI tools while addressing bias and misinformation risks. Training should prioritize practical applications and include incentive mechanisms for participation, helping users effectively integrate AI into their workflows while understanding operational principles.
Public Support for Government Regulation of AI
Over 73% of Taiwanese citizens favor regulations for AI technology, with more than half supporting government oversight. However, demographic differences emerge: while middle-aged and older groups trust government regulation, those aged 18-29 show more diverse preferences, divided between government oversight, corporate self-regulation, and user responsibility.
Education level correlates with regulatory support - those holding college degrees or higher strongly favor government oversight, possibly due to greater awareness of AI risks. This suggests higher education corresponds with increased risk perception and support for AI governance.
Given this public sentiment, the government should reference international examples to establish industry-specific AI guidelines. Clear regulations and standards are essential to balance technological advancement with public interest protection.
Public Risk Perception of Cyber Attacks Shows Knowledge Gap
74.72% of Taiwanese respondents believe their government and infrastructure face foreign cyber attack risks within the next year (31.16% likely, 43.56% very likely). However, awareness gaps exist among elderly (43.09% "don't know" for 70+ age group) and those with lower education (60.57% "don't know" for primary education or below).
Despite recent cyber incidents, public awareness remains low - 63.08% unfamiliar with attacks during Pelosi's visit, and 71.98% unaware of local airline ransomware incidents. While risk perception is high, most citizens lack knowledge of specific attacks.
This disconnect raises questions about risk perception sources: media coverage focusing on severity without details, political messaging, or ideological influences. Additionally, findings suggest targeted cybersecurity awareness programs are needed for elderly and less-educated populations.
Public Shows Mixed Confidence in Government's Cybersecurity Capabilities
51.22% of respondents lack confidence in government's cyber defense capabilities, while 40.43% express trust. Lower education and elderly groups frequently respond "don't know," indicating limited awareness of both cyber threats and government readiness.
Global context: EU established the Cyber Resilience Act (2023) requiring comprehensive security measures for digital products, and reached agreement on the Cyber Solidarity Act (March 2024) for enhanced cooperation. The US launched a national Cybersecurity Awareness Program (2023), while Taiwan only recently amended its Information and Communication Security Management Act in 2024.
Taiwan should strengthen its regulatory framework and public awareness initiatives to:
- Build public confidence through transparent cybersecurity measures
- Establish clear responsibilities for stakeholders (platforms, manufacturers)
- Match international standards for cyber resilience and defense