With the exponential growth of technology and the digitization of organizations, the way we work and do business has been completely transformed. From automation to artificial intelligence, digitization continues to alter the essence of various industries, creating new opportunities and challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this process, with an estimated 466 million people starting to use the Internet for the first time during that period.
This number continued to grow steadily, until by mid-2022 more than 63% of the world’s population was connected, equivalent to 5.4 billion people. However, this growing dependence on technology has also generated a greater need to protect our data and ensure online security. At the same time, a significant portion of the population remains disconnected.
In today’s post, we address another megatrend: digital security. We will focus on three key points: technological addiction in the younger generations, the impact of the digital divide, and cybersecurity. And, to conclude, we’ll explore some weak signals that could give us clues about what’s to come.
Addiction to social networks
Like internet access, the use of social networks has also reached unprecedented proportions, integrating itself into the daily lives of millions of people. Platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter not only facilitate communication and information sharing, but also shape the way we consume content, form opinions and relate to others. However, this phenomenon has led to growing concern about the engagement with these platforms and their effects on mental health and overall well-being.
Recent studies show that the design of social networks, with algorithms that prioritize user retention and increased screen time, can lead to addictive behaviors. This design based on instant reward and positive reinforcement can lead to a cycle of dependency that negatively affects mental health, especially among adolescents and young adults who begin to crave social rewards, such as visibility, attention, and positive comments from peers with whom they constantly compare themselves. According to the Chief Science Officer of the American Psychological Association (APA), Mitchell Prinstein, “social networks offer the ‘empty calories of social interaction’ that seem to help satiate our biological and psychological needs, but contain none of the healthy ingredients needed to reap benefits.”
A study published by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in the United States found an increased risk of anxiety, depression and psychological distress among intensive users of social networks, especially among adolescents. Also, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, screen time is associated with attention deficits, increased aggression and low self-esteem. As a result, New York City, the Department of Education and the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation filed a lawsuit against TikTok, Meta, Snapchat and YouTube to hold the companies responsible for “fueling the national youth mental health crisis.”
On average, social network users spend between 2 and 3 hours a day on these platforms, according to recent data. In the case of adolescents and young adults, this number can be even higher, exceeding 4 hours a day in some cases. This considerable exposure time not only displaces healthier activities, such as physical exercise or face-to-face social contact, but also increases exposure to content that can negatively influence emotional well-being, contributing to greater vulnerability to mental health problems.
Impact of the digital divide
As digitization advances, a growing digital divide is evident between those who have access to technology and those who do not. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), one-third of the world’s population does not have access to broadband Internet due to their location and resources. In developing countries, only 44% of people use the Internet, compared to 87% in developed countries.
ITU and World Bank calculations, World Bank, 2024.
Notes: High Income Countries (PIA), East Africa (AFOR), West Africa (AFOC), East Asia and the Pacific (AOP), Europe and Central Asia (EAC), Latin America and the Caribbean (ALC), Middle East and North Africa (OMNA), South Asia (AM).
If on one side of the world, the COVID-19 pandemic boosted overall Internet access, for other countries it exacerbated existing digital divides. This disparity relates not only to access to devices and internet connectivity, but also to the digital skills needed to fully participate in the digital economy, dependent on age and gender.
The digital divide has profound implications in terms of equality of opportunity. Individuals and communities that lack access to modern technologies are at a disadvantage in terms of access to quality education, health services and employment opportunities. With many essential services online, there is a real and present danger that those without Internet access will fall further behind in terms of digital inclusion, facing increased poverty and unemployment.
In education, the digital divide creates significant barriers for students from low-income households. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many students were unable to participate in remote learning due to lack of access to devices and high-speed internet. In Spain, for example, 9.2% of low-income households do not have internet access, affecting nearly 100,000 households with children. This lack of access limits educational opportunities and perpetuates socioeconomic inequalities.
Ciberseguridad
Cybersecurity
With increased connectivity and reliance on technology, more and more data is being collected to deliver personalized and tailored services. Companies face an increased risk of cyber attacks that can have devastating consequences, including data loss, intellectual property theft and disruption of business operations. In this context, cybersecurity presents itself as an indispensable ally in meeting the challenges of digital security. There are currently two ways of facing these challenges: those who are concerned and increasingly aware of the situation, even if they have not developed a clear strategy, and those who act and prevent a future crisis. At the individual, corporate and governmental levels, the imminence of this megatrend is evident.
At the individual level, the European Union conducted a survey on “The Digital Decade” where Europeans were asked to rank their priorities in terms of national priorities from a list of eleven options. The most frequent response was protecting users from cyber-attacks (30%), followed by improving the availability of high-speed internet (27%) and protecting against misinformation and illegal content (26%).
The digital decade, European Union (2023)
At the business level, according to a survey promoted by KPMG and La Vanguardia, more than 50% of companies consider cybersecurity strategy as a “high priority” for top management.
The same survey showed that 73% of the companies surveyed consider improving their level of cybersecurity as a main focus in their digital transformation strategy.
Pulso Empresarial survey, La Vanguardia (2024)
At the government level, this megatrend has also had repercussions. For example, Spain’s National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE) signed an agreement in early 2024 with Italy’s National Cybersecurity Agency (ACN) to carry out joint actions and initiatives to develop a culture of cybersecurity in the two countries, strengthening the capabilities of both to face the growing common challenges.
At the global level, surveys and research have also been carried out to propose further actions on cybersecurity. For example, the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) is an initiative of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations specialized agency for ICTs, reveals an urgent need to address the growing cybersecurity gap between developed and developing countries.
Spain ranks fourth globally and third at the European level, thanks to its efforts and capacity building in terms of digital infrastructure, digital skills and resources. In addition, its membership in the European Union establishes an extensive and restrictive regulatory framework to regulate cybersecurity. Applicable regulations include:
- The EU Cybersecurity Act, for the regulation of the European Union Agency for Network and Information Security (ENISA) and the common cybersecurity certification for information and communications technology (ICT) assets.
- The Directive on the security of network and information systems (NIS Directive), revised by the end of 2020, presenting the proposal for a Directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union (SRI Directive2).
- The EU Cyber Resilience Act, to protect consumers and businesses that buy or use products or software with a digital component.
- The Code of Cybersecurity Law in Spain, on the main rules to be taken into account in relation to the protection of cyberspace and cybersecurity.
- The National Cybersecurity Strategy 2019 to ensure a high level of security in networks and information systems.
What can or should organizations do?
A megatrend is a phenomenon that is impossible to avoid, but it is possible to mitigate its impact and anticipate the challenges and opportunities it brings. By focusing on this megatrend, organizations can adopt measures that are tailored to their specific industry and context.
On the one hand, many companies are already investing in digital solutions to streamline processes and increase operational efficiency.
According to a World Bank survey, between April 2020 and December 2022, the percentage of micro-enterprises (0-4 employees) investing in digital solutions doubled from 10% to 20%, while data collected on large companies (100+ employees) reveals that this percentage tripled from 20% to 60%. Among the most influential geographies, East Asia ranks first, quadrupling its digital investments between 2020 and 2022.
Business Opinion Survey, World Bank, 2024
Notes: East Asia and Pacific (AOP), Europe and Central Asia (EAC), Latin America and the Caribbean (ALC), Middle East and North Africa (OMNA), South Asia (AM), Sub-Saharan Africa (ASS).
In addition, organizations must not only focus on protecting their systems and data, but also on bridging the digital divide internally and externally. As digitization advances, those who do not have access to technology or lack adequate digital skills are at a disadvantage. Therefore, investing in digital education becomes a key priority. Not only is education crucial to equip employees with the tools they need to work in a safe digital environment, but it also helps to reduce the digital divide, a phenomenon that affects communities and generates socioeconomic inequalities.
This is where the connection to social networks and digital education becomes evident. As more people become connected to the Internet and social networks, the risks associated with prolonged exposure to poorly controlled digital environments increase. Organizations need to be aware that “hooking up” to social networks and the resulting psychological consequences can affect the productivity of their employees and the overall well-being of their communities. In addition, young people, who are frequent users of these platforms, require training and awareness to learn how to use them in a healthy and safe manner.
Therefore, organizations have a responsibility to promote responsible use of technology and encourage cybersecurity not only among their employees, but also among their customers and users. Training programs in digital skills and in the safe use of the Internet, along with the implementation of digital wellness policies that avoid overexposure to social networks, are essential to combat both digital addictions and cybersecurity risks.
The National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE) proposes a decalogue to improve the level of cybersecurity in companies. Before implementing any cybersecurity measure, INCIBE considers it essential to carry out a risk analysis. Identifying the threats to which the organization is exposed is essential to propose measures to mitigate their effects. It is essential for companies to familiarize themselves with concepts such as Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI). This intelligence is based on detailed data and knowledge about cybersecurity threats that may impact an enterprise, and serves to anticipate attacks and reduce detection costs.
To acquire a deep and comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity, education is another essential guideline according to INCIBE’s Decalogue. 85% of managers surveyed by KMPG and Lavanguardia consider internal training as a priority measure to boost security in the digital transformation process. It is essential to extend this knowledge throughout the company, starting with managers, and to ensure that cybersecurity training is accessible and continuous for all employees.
Pulso Empresarial Survey, La Vanguardia (2024)
In addition, organizations must be attentive to constantly evolving digital security regulations and standards, ensuring they comply with legal requirements and protect the privacy of their customers’ data. This involves keeping all applications and systems up to date with the latest updates, using protection tools and investing in robust security systems to establish incident response protocols. In this way, companies can protect their digital assets, ensure business continuity and maintain the trust of customers and business partners.
Signs to watch out for
The digital future poses complex challenges, but organizations can and should stay ahead of them by investing in secure technology, promoting digital education and collaborating on global solutions to combat cyber threats. The key is to balance protection of systems with digital inclusion, ensuring that the benefits of technology are accessible to all.
In this context, it is also crucial to pay attention to the “weak signals” that are emerging around this megatrend. These signals point to possible developments that could have a significant impact in the future, but are currently not fully recognized. Prominent among them are cybersecurity geared towards mental well-being, micro-segmentation in digital education for vulnerable populations, and the use of artificial intelligence as a preventative tool to identify cyber threats before they materialize. In addition, the increasing integration of digital ethics, the creation of local and self-sustaining internet infrastructures, and the monetization of digital wellness are signs of changes that could redefine how businesses and governments approach cybersecurity and digital inclusion.
These weak signals underscore the importance of maintaining an anticipatory and adaptive view, not only to address current challenges, but also to prepare for emerging opportunities and risks in an increasingly interconnected world.
- Cybersecurity for mental health: As concerns grow about the effects of social networks on mental health, cybersecurity technologies and policies designed to protect the emotional well-being of users could emerge. This could include tools for monitoring and regulating social network use to prevent “hooking” or digital addiction for both individuals and businesses.
- Micro-segmentation in digital education: The increasing use of technology in education, coupled with the widening digital divide, could lead to the emergence of ultra-segmented educational programs, specifically targeting vulnerable communities that have not yet been reached by traditional methods. Tailored solutions for different segments of the population could become increasingly common to bridge the digital divide.
- Preventive cyber defense with AI and machine learning: The use of artificial intelligence not only by cybercriminals, but also as a preventive tool by businesses and governments, could transform digital security into a more proactive dynamic. Predictive algorithms that identify threats before they materialize are a weak signal that could influence how cybersecurity strategies are developed in the future.
- Integrating digital ethics: There is a growing awareness of the need for digital ethics to be more integrated into business training and government regulations. This movement could lead to a rise of “digital ethics,” where organizations are not only concerned about the security of their systems, but also the ethical use of data and technologies, including issues such as privacy, transparency and social responsibility.
- Consolidating local Internet infrastructures: In response to the digital divide, there could be an emerging trend towards the creation of local, self-sufficient Internet infrastructures in rural or marginalized communities, driven by mesh networking technology or decentralized solutions. This would enable internet access in areas where large commercial infrastructures have not reached.
- Monetizing digital wellness: The focus on mental health and online wellness could lead to new industries or business models focused on monetizing digital wellness, where technology companies and service providers create paid solutions that help users regulate their time online and their mental health in the face of social media addiction.
References
- Risks and benefits of social networking – APA: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/02/harms-benefits-social-media-kids
- Social media addiction and mental health – Stanford Law School: https://law.stanford.edu/2024/05/20/social-media-addiction-and-mental-health-the-growing-concern-for-youth-well-being/
- Social media use and screen time – American College of Pediatricians: https://acpeds.org/position-statements/media-use-and-screen-time-its-impact-on-children-adolescents-and-families
- New York lawsuit against technology companies – New York City Government: https://www.nyc.gov/office-of-the-mayor/news/125-24/mayor-adams-lawsuit-against-social-media-companies-fueling-nationwide-youth-mental-health#/0
- Impact of the digital divide – Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE): https://ctu.ieee.org/impact-of-the-digital-divide-economic-social-and-educational-consequences/
- Impact of the digital divide on education – UNICEF: https://www.unicef.es/educa/blog/covid-19-brecha-educativa
- Survey on Equipment and Use of Information and Communication Technologies in Households – INE: https://www.ine.es/prensa/tich_2019.pdf
- EU survey The digital decade: https://europa.eu/eurobarometer/surveys/detail/2959%20?etrans=es
- KPMG and Lavanguardia survey: https://www.lavanguardia.com/dinero/20240128/9507288/68-cree-ia-supone-ventaja-competitiva.html
- Spain-Italy Agreement: https://www.incibe.es/en/incibe/press-room/spain-and-italy-sign-collaboration-agreement-boost-european-cybersecurity
- Cibersecurity Index: https://www.itu.int/epublications/publication/D-STR-GCI.01-2021-HTM-E
- The EU Cybersecurity Law: https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/cybersecurity-act
- The Directive on the security of network and information systems: Directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union (NIS2 Directive) | Shaping Europe’s digital future (europa.eu)
- Proposal for directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union: Proposal for directive on measures for high common level of cybersecurity across the Union | Shaping Europe’s digital future (europa.eu))
- The EU Cyber Resilience Act: Cyber Resilience Act | Shaping Europe’s digital future (europa.eu))
- The Code of Cybersecurity Law in Spain: BOE.es – Código de Derecho de la Ciberseguridad)
- The National Cybersecurity Strategy 2019: Estrategia Nacional de Ciberseguridad 2019 | DSN
- INCIBE Decalogue: Decálogo de ciberseguridad: mejora el nivel de protección de tu empresa | Empresas | INCIBE
- Threat Intelligence: ¿Qué es la inteligencia de amenazas? | IBM