What's Happening?
ZoraSafe, a startup founded by sisters Catherine Karow and Ellie King Karow, is developing an app designed to protect older adults from online scams and hackers. The app, which will be showcased at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025, incorporates gamified microlearning to educate users on internet safety. Key features include scanning QR codes for malware, checking suspicious SMS and emails, and sharing known scams to alert the community. The app is expected to launch in a month, with a subscription cost of $12.99 per month for individuals, and higher rates for family plans.
Why It's Important?
The initiative addresses a significant gap in cybersecurity for older adults, who are often more vulnerable to online threats due to a lack of familiarity with digital technology. By providing tools and education, ZoraSafe aims to empower this demographic, potentially reducing the incidence of scams and enhancing their online experience. The app's focus on privacy, with most processing done on the device, further underscores its commitment to user security. This development could lead to broader adoption of similar technologies, influencing cybersecurity practices and policies.
What's Next?
Future updates to ZoraSafe will include features like AI-assisted scam detection during phone calls and NFC stickers for quick app access. The company plans to expand its offerings to children, partner with schools, and introduce the app in multiple languages, starting with Spanish. These expansions could increase the app's user base and impact, fostering a safer online environment for diverse age groups.
Beyond the Headlines
ZoraSafe's approach highlights the ethical responsibility of tech companies to protect vulnerable populations online. By prioritizing privacy and user education, the app sets a precedent for ethical cybersecurity solutions. Its potential partnerships with educational institutions could also influence how digital literacy is taught, promoting safer internet practices from a young age.
