ABSTRACT VIEW
EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN AGAINST CYBERCRIME: BUILDING DIGITAL RESILIENCE IN THE AGE OF AI MANIPULATION
M. Unterweger, C. Hörmann, L. Kuka, B. Sabitzer
Johannes Kepler University Linz (AUSTRIA)
The rapid advancement of digital technology has brought both opportunities and challenges, particularly the increasing risks of AI-driven media manipulation. Deepfakes and synthetic content threaten privacy, security, and trust, making young people—especially adolescent girls—highly vulnerable due to their frequent online presence and limited awareness of digital risks. Without proper education, many lack the knowledge to recognize and counter these threats effectively, leaving them exposed to potential exploitation and misinformation.

This paper presents an educational initiative designed to empower girls and young women with the skills needed to identify and respond to AI-generated manipulations. The project includes interactive workshops, online resources, and teacher training, fostering digital resilience and critical thinking. By equipping participants with practical strategies for online safety, it aims to reduce their vulnerability to digital threats. Through expert insights and hands-on activities, the program enhances digital literacy, helping young people navigate AI-driven content responsibly.

In addition to addressing the immediate concerns of cybercrime, the project aims to build a broader culture of digital safety and responsibility. Through its comprehensive approach, it strives to not only raise awareness but also to provide tangible tools for digital empowerment, helping young people become more confident and informed users of digital media. This paper explores the design, implementation, and expected outcomes of the project, illustrating how education can play a vital role in mitigating the risks of cybercrime and fostering a safer, more resilient online environment for future generations.

Keywords: Digital literacy, cybercrime, artificial intelligence, media education, awareness.

Event: EDULEARN25
Session: Student Wellbeing (1)
Session time: Monday, 30th of June from 11:00 to 12:15
Session type: ORAL