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With the rise of digital tools and social media, seniors are increasingly online, enjoying the benefits of staying connected to family and friends, accessing information, and even shopping and banking from home. However, this increased access also brings certain risks. Online scams, phishing attacks, and identity theft are common, and seniors are often targeted due to their trustworthiness and less familiarity with digital threats. Here are some practical, straightforward tips to help seniors stay safe online.
1. Recognize Common Scams
The internet is full of scams and recognizing them is key to staying safe. Here are a few of the most common:
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Phishing Emails and Texts: Phishing is when scammers pretend to be legitimate organizations to trick you into sharing personal information. For example, you may receive an email from a "bank" or "government agency" asking for account information, passwords, or Social Security numbers. Legitimate organizations will rarely ask for sensitive information over email or text, so avoid sharing personal information through these channels.
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Fake Tech Support: Scammers may call or pop up in ads online, claiming your computer has a virus and offering to fix it for a fee. Reputable companies will not reach out directly unless you’ve contacted them. If unsure, hang up and call the official support line of the device or service.
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Grandparent Scam: Scammers impersonate a loved one, often a grandchild, saying they need money urgently, sometimes for bail or a medical emergency. Always verify by calling the family member directly, even if they say not to tell anyone. Scammers often play on emotions to get you to act quickly.
2. Strengthen Passwords and Use Two-Factor Authentication
Strong passwords are essential for keeping online accounts secure. Here are some tips:
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Use Unique Passwords: Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. If one account gets compromised, the others are at risk if passwords are reused.
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Make Passwords Complex: Passwords should ideally include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, and be at least eight characters long. Avoid using easily guessable information, like birthdays or names of family members.
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Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Many websites offer 2FA, which sends a code to your phone or email when you log in. It’s an extra layer of protection in case your password is compromised. Set this up for important accounts like email, banking, and social media.
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Password Managers: Password managers securely store and generate strong passwords for each account. Some are free and can be installed on your computer or smartphone, so you don’t need to remember every password. Examples include LastPass, Dashlane, and 1Password.
3. Be Cautious on Social Media
Social media is a wonderful way to stay connected, but sharing too much can open you up to risks:
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Limit Personal Information: Avoid posting details like your address, phone number, or information about your daily routine, as this can make you a target for identity theft or home burglaries.
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Adjust Privacy Settings: Set profiles to "Private" or adjust privacy settings so only close friends and family can see your posts. Many platforms allow you to customize who can see your content, so explore those settings.
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Beware of Friend Requests from Strangers: Scammers often use fake profiles to connect with people and later ask for money or personal information. Only accept friend requests from people you know.
4. Install Security Software and Keep Devices Updated
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Use Antivirus Software: Antivirus software helps protect against malware, viruses, and other online threats. Many reputable antivirus programs, like Norton, McAfee, and AVG, offer affordable subscriptions. Be cautious about free antivirus options, as some may come with hidden costs or lack adequate protection.
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Enable Automatic Updates: Software updates contain security patches to protect against the latest threats. Make sure your devices are set to update automatically, so you don’t miss out on critical security upgrades.
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Use Firewalls: A firewall acts as a barrier between your device and the internet, helping to block unauthorized access. Most computers have built-in firewalls that can be enabled in security settings.
5. Practice Safe Browsing and Email Habits
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Verify URLs: Phishing scams often direct you to fake websites that look legitimate. Before entering any personal information, check that the web address (URL) starts with “https://” instead of “http://” (the "s" stands for "secure"). Additionally, look for the padlock icon in the browser's address bar.
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Be Cautious with Links and Attachments: Links and attachments can contain malware or lead to phishing sites. Avoid clicking on them in emails or texts from unknown senders. If you’re unsure, visit the website directly by typing the URL into your browser instead.
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Never Share Financial Information Through Email: Avoid sharing bank details or credit card information through email. Email is not always secure, and scammers can intercept sensitive information.
6. Educate Yourself and Stay Informed
The internet landscape changes quickly, so learning about new scams and security measures can go a long way. Here are some ideas:
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Sign Up for Alerts: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the AARP regularly release information about new scams and how to avoid them. Signing up for email alerts can keep you informed about the latest threats.
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Take Online Safety Classes: Many community centers, libraries, and senior organizations offer free or low-cost online safety classes. These can help you learn the basics and build confidence with technology.
Staying safe online is possible with some caution and regular updates. Understanding common scams, using strong passwords, and staying informed are foundational steps for digital safety. For seniors, being able to navigate the online world with confidence can open up new opportunities for connection, convenience, and enrichment—without falling victim to cyber threats.
Related: Smart Investing for Retirees: Strategies for Downside Protection