Funding application to CyberFocus funding scheme - July 2025. Total £29275

This public engagement project aims to raise awareness among young people about cybersecurity in managing digital assets and digital legacy. It will support the co-creation of educational resources to strengthen online account security and promote responsible digital asset management.
Digital assets include personal photos, videos, documents, cryptocurrencies, and online accounts. A digital legacy is the online footprint a person leaves behind, such as social media profiles, emails, digital documents, and subscriptions. As young people’s online presence continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding how to protect it.

Currently, there is limited public awareness about the cybersecurity risks associated with digital assets and legacy. This gap can lead to poor management of personal data, increasing risks to young people’s online reputation, career opportunities, privacy, and long-term digital presence. Life events such as illness, death, or bereavement highlight the importance of secure access to digital information, both for individuals and their loved ones.

Challenges such as confusing platform policies, limited cultural understanding, and a lack of guidance make it difficult for individuals to effectively manage their digital legacy. Strengthening cybersecurity knowledge will help young people safeguard their data, assert their digital rights, and avoid data loss or unauthorised access.

This project will engage young people in developing accessible educational materials that encourage proactive digital asset management and cybersecurity awareness, ensuring they are better equipped to protect their digital lives now and in the future.