More seniors are spending time online than ever before. Technology can help in many ways. It can help them connect with loved ones, get essential goods and services without leaving home, and stay in touch with their communities.
But anyone can be a target for cybercrime. Attacks can happen in many ways. Avoiding scams and online predators matters for anyone who spends time online. It matters even more for seniors. Seniors need to be aware of common scams and stay alert while online. Cybercrime Magazine notes that scams targeting older adults may cost families up to US$36 billion a year.
Like all powerful tools, the internet and mobile technology come with risks. These risks can be managed if users follow a few basic rules. Here are five ways seniors can stay safe online:
- Security software – There are many antivirus and anti-spyware options that can help protect seniors online. Make sure the program is installed properly. Run updates regularly so new threats are addressed. It is also important to update software on computers, tablets, and mobile devices when updates are released. These updates fix bugs and add security patches that protect against hackers.
- Limit access to accounts – Scammers often try to steal the personal and financial information seniors access online. To keep this data secure, enable two-factor authentication where it is offered. Never send personal information to people you don’t know. Most importantly, create smart, strong passwords. Seniors should never use the names of loved ones, birthdates, or common words. Strong passwords include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Evaluate emails – Email is one of the primary ways scammers steal information from seniors online. Financial institutions will never ask for account information by email. Sending account numbers, passwords, or personal information is never a good idea. If a senior is not sure whether their financial institution is trying to reach them about a problem, they can always call their bank to discuss it.
- Shop online and access social media safely – Fake shopping sites are common. Shop with trusted vendors, and check online reviews for merchants. Reviews often alert shoppers to potential scams. Seniors should also use a credit card instead of a debit card when possible, and monitor accounts regularly for suspicious activity. The same goes for social media accounts. Fraudsters use quizzes and fake profiles to gain access to users’ social media accounts. They may pose as someone in the user’s network or use information a user has posted to guess security question answers.
- Ask for help – Seniors should not be afraid to reach out to trusted loved ones or friends if they feel uncomfortable online or need help navigating security measures. If you are concerned about the seniors in your life, you can help educate them about known scams and tactics for staying vigilant. You can also help with software updates. Calling customer service at a bank or store can clear up confusion if an email, message, or transaction looks wrong. Having a trusted group of people who can help with online issues can give seniors more confidence using the technology available to them.
Comfort Keepers Can Help
Our goal is to provide uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their families. The individualized care plans we create for our clients consider physical goals as well as mental health needs. Our caregivers can help seniors browse online and help families stay connected through technology. We strive to Elevate the Human Spiritâ„ through quality, compassionate, joyful care.
To learn more about our in-home care services, contact Comfort Keepers today.
References
Cybercrime Magazine. “3 Cyber Fraud Tactics Targeting Seniors and Why They’re So Effective.” Web. 2019.
AT&T Cybersecurity. “Top Cybersecurity Threats for Seniors.” Web. 2019.
ZDNet. Cybersecurity: Why more needs to be done to help older people stay safe online. Web. 2019.
National Cybersecurity Alliance. “Online Safety Basics: Online Shopping.” Web. 2020.
