Digital government mail poses challenges for all ages, including young people, expert says

Finnish authorities’ shift to digital communication via the Suomi.fi messaging system has left many struggling to adapt, with even younger residents needing guidance, according to a government specialist. The change has also triggered a wave of scam attempts, prompting officials to warn the public about fraud risks.

Over 3.5 million Finns have already adopted the electronic Suomi.fi inbox for official correspondence, but some—like Leena Kähkönen from Nurmo—continue to rely on traditional paper mail. “I’m terribly resistant to digital things,” Kähkönen admitted at a public advisory session in Seinäjoki this week, organised by the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV). She worries about those without devices or digital skills: “How do they manage? I want to speak for them.”

Kari Kapela, another local resident, also sticks to paper mail on principle, preferring face-to-face interactions with authorities. Both he and Kähkönen use digital devices but remain hesitant about the new system.

Scams and security concerns rise with digital shift

Mirva Gullman, a DVV specialist, notes that while seniors often seek help, younger people—though tech-savvy—also struggle with formal digital interactions. “They know how to use devices but aren’t yet familiar with dealing with authorities online,” she explained. Language barriers, disabilities, and diverse cultural backgrounds add to the challenges.

Security is a top concern at DVV’s info sessions. Gullman emphasises that Suomi.fi messages require strong authentication, making them safer than email. Official notifications about new messages never include links, and authorities never demand immediate action—unlike scammers, who often fabricate urgency.

Mixed reactions as paper mail phase-out looms

At Seinäjoki’s library, reactions varied. Students reported switching to Suomi.fi, while a young mother was unsure if she’d already gone digital. One middle-aged man shrugged: “My wife handles these things!”

Pirjo Haka, who attended the DVV session with a friend, signed up just the day before. “I had no choice,” she said, laughing at her own delay. A retired office worker, she now navigates online train tickets and food delivery apps. “You can’t get by without a smartphone anymore.”

Gullman reassured attendees that digital messages are securely stored and decisions appear instantly in Suomi.fi—unlike paper mail, which will eventually be phased out but remains an option for now.