What are some good tips for Cyber Safety for Seniors

The internet has become an integral part of everyday life, offering information, entertainment, and communication at our fingertips. But with these benefits comes a list of potential risks, especially for seniors less familiar with navigating online world. Cyber security for seniors has become a hot topic as more and more scammers are targeting older adults. We’ve unfortunately entered a world where online safety for seniors is constantly at risk of identity theft, fraud, and financial scams.

Many seniors use the internet to stay connected with family and friends, especially those who live far away. 

• Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram have become everyday tools for sharing photos, and videos, helping to maintain connections despite physical distance.

• Video chatting platforms are helpful with families not all living in the same town or even the same state like it was years ago.  Platforms like Facetime and Zoom have also become more popular in maintaining connections face-to-face when families don't live close together.

 Many people use the internet for entertainment. Even games have websites that you can request premium accounts on.

• Streaming services allow you to watch movies and TV. Even weather events can be streamed live now.

• Streaming online radio stations and music playlists let you find new music or listen to some of your favorite classics. 

  
  

Most of us didn’t grow up with the internet, so It’s not uncommon for seniors to feel overwhelmed or intimidated by the changing internet. As a result, you may not be aware of the different kinds of internet scams or how to stay safe online.

Below are a few risk that seniors may not always be aware of:

• Phishing scams targeting personal information - emails that ask for you to click on an unknown site or site you are not familiar with.

• Malware and viruses affecting devices

• Online fraud and identity theft

• Social engineering attacks

• Difficulty in recognizing fake news and misinformation

• Privacy concerns regarding personal data

• Trusting: Scammers often exploit the kindness, compassion, and trusting nature of older adults to manipulate them into giving money or divulging personal information. 

• Isolation: Socially isolated seniors may be more likely to engage with strangers online, which increases their risk of encountering scammers. 

• Cognitive changes: Age- and medical-related cognitive changes can impair judgment and decision-making for some seniors, making them more vulnerable to exploitation.

• Lottery or prize scams: You may receive a notification claiming you’ve won a lottery or prize for a game you did not play. They’ll then force you to provide personal or financial information to “claim the winnings.” 

• Scare scams: Many scammers will call or email you that a loved one is injured, in jail, or in a desperate situation. They’ll then require you to pay a certain amount of money to “help” your loved one. 

These are just a few types of scams that threaten online safety for seniors. New threats are constantly being exposed, so it’s important to stay vigilant when on the internet. Read on to learn how you can stay safe online. 

Tips for Seniors

• Use strong, unique passwords for each online account.

• Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.

• Be cautious when sharing personal information online, especially on social media.

• Keep your devices and software up to date with the latest security patches.

• Use security software such as antivirus programs and firewalls to protect your devices.

• Be wary of online scams and phishing attempts that try to trick you into revealing sensitive information.

• Consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your passwords.

• Regularly review your privacy settings on social media platforms and adjust them as needed.

• If in doubt, verify the authenticity of websites and emails before providing any information.

• Stay informed about common online threats and scams targeting seniors.

Following these internet safety tips can dramatically reduce your risk of falling victim to online scams and threats. The internet is a treasure trove of information and entertainment, and taking additional steps toward cyber security for seniors ensures you can enjoy all its benefits without worry. 

Resources:

GoGoGrandparent.com Stay Safe Online

Connectsafely.org