Eurostat data reveals 38.98% of internet users in Cyprus encountered hostile or degrading content online in 2025. Unlike the broader EU trend, local exposure peaked dramatically among young adults aged 25–34 rather than the youngest demographic.

Demographics of Online Exposure in Cyprus

Exposure to hostile or degrading online content was significantly more common among younger age groups in the European Union in 2025, according to data published by Eurostat on Thursday. As far as Cyprus is concerned, the findings present a somewhat different picture, with 49.47% of internet users aged 25–34 reporting that they had encountered hostile or degrading messages during the previous three months.

Among those aged 16–24, the share stood at 35.87%, while for the 45–54 age group it reached 38.76%. Overall, 38.98% of internet users in Cyprus reported having been exposed to hostile or degrading messages.

Target Topics of Hostile Messaging

Of those affected, 31.52% encountered hostile or degrading content related to political and/or social views, 29.10% reported content targeting sexual orientation, while 26.2% concerned racial or ethnic origin.

Comparative European Union Trends

According to Eurostat, at EU level, 54.0% of internet users aged 25–34 and 53.7% of those aged 16–24 reported exposure to hostile or degrading messages directed against specific groups or individuals.

Exposure to such content gradually declined with age. The share stood at 46.4% among people aged 35–44, 38.9% among those aged 45–54, 32.8% for the 55–64 age group, and 28.1% among people aged 65–74.

Source: CNA(ΚΥΠΕ)