At-Risk Populations

Groups that are more likely to experience harm from digital attacks, surveillance, institutional discrimination, or other threats, and are disproportionately affected when such harms occur. Originally a security research term, it extends beyond traditionally recognized vulnerable groups to include most marginalized communities and anyone facing significant security or safety threats. In accessibility contexts, at-risk populations include disabled people whose access strategies involve navigating criminalized activities, stigmatized identities, or adversarial institutions.