ZoraSafe App Aims to Protect Older Adults from Cyber Threats
As cybersecurity threats become increasingly sophisticated, a new startup called ZoraSafe is developing a mobile application designed to protect older adults from online scams and hacking attempts. Founded by sisters Catherine Karow and Ellie King Karow, ZoraSafe aims to provide a user-friendly platform that not only detects and blocks malicious activity but also educates users on how to stay safe online.
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Official guidance: W3C — official guidance for ZoraSafe app wants protect older people
Addressing a Vulnerable Demographic
The cybersecurity industry has historically focused on business-to-business solutions, leaving individual internet users largely responsible for their own online safety. This can be especially challenging for older adults who may not have grown up with the internet and smartphones, making them potentially more vulnerable to scams and online fraud. ZoraSafe seeks to bridge this gap by offering a dedicated security solution tailored to the specific needs of this demographic.
The ZoraSafe app is designed with simplicity and accessibility in mind. The initial version of the app, expected to launch soon at a cost of $12.99 per month for individual subscribers, will include features such as QR code scanning for malware detection, a system for checking suspicious SMS messages and emails, and a mechanism for users to report scams and threats. Catherine Karow explained that the app aims to create a network effect by incentivizing users to share information about scams, enabling the entire ZoraSafe community to be alerted to potential threats quickly.
Key Features and Functionality
One of the core features of ZoraSafe is its ability to scan QR codes for malicious content. QR codes have become increasingly popular for various purposes, but they can also be used by scammers to direct users to phishing websites or download malware. ZoraSafe’s QR code scanner will analyze the code and alert users if it detects any potential threats.
Another important feature is the ability to submit suspicious SMS text messages and emails to ZoraSafe for analysis. Users can forward potentially fraudulent messages to the app, which will then use its threat intelligence database to determine if the message is a known scam. If a threat is detected, the app will provide the user with information about the scam and advice on how to avoid similar situations in the future. Future versions of the app will also include a feature that allows ZoraSafe to join a suspicious phone call, using AI to detect if it’s a scam or a deepfake call. The company states that the app will not be listening to or recording the calls.
Gamified Microlearning for Enhanced Security Awareness
Beyond its threat detection capabilities, ZoraSafe also emphasizes user education through gamified microlearning. When the app detects a threat, it will initiate a chat with the user, explaining the nature of the threat and providing guidance on how to identify and avoid similar scams in the future. Ellie King Karow explained that the goal is to build resilience and increase users’ awareness of online security best practices, even when they are not actively using the app.
The AI engine behind ZoraSafe is designed with privacy in mind. According to Ellie King Karow, 85% of the processing will be done on the device, with only 15% occurring in the cloud. The data sent to the cloud will be sanitized of personal information to protect user privacy. Catherine Karow also mentioned plans for an “NFC sticker” that can be attached to phone cases, allowing users to quickly access the app in situations such as receiving a deepfake call or needing to alert caretakers in case of a fall.
Future Expansion and Development
Looking ahead, the founders of ZoraSafe have plans to expand the app’s functionality and reach. They intend to develop versions of the app for children and partner with schools to promote online safety education. They also plan to launch the app in different languages, starting with Spanish, to reach a wider audience.
ZoraSafe is scheduled to be part of Startup Battlefield at the TechCrunch Disrupt conference. The event offers the startup an opportunity to showcase its technology to a wide audience of investors, industry experts, and potential users. The conference takes place October 27-29, 2025, in San Francisco.
Conclusion
ZoraSafe is poised to make a significant contribution to the cybersecurity landscape by providing a targeted solution for older adults. By combining threat detection with user education, the app aims to empower this vulnerable demographic to navigate the online world with greater confidence and security. With its planned features and future expansions, ZoraSafe has the potential to become a valuable tool for protecting individuals and families from the ever-evolving threats of the digital age.
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