Staying Safe Online: Simple Tips for Seniors

The internet is a wonderful tool for staying connected and accessing information, but it’s important to stay safe online. Here are some simple tips to help you avoid online scams and protect your personal information.

Create Strong Passwords

A good password keeps your accounts safe. Here’s how to make strong passwords:

• Mix It Up: Use a combination of letters (upper and lower case), numbers, and special characters.
• Avoid Personal Info: Don’t use easy-to-guess information like your birthday or name.
• Make It Long: Use at least 12 characters.
• Different for Each Account: Don’t use the same password for different accounts. If you have trouble remembering them, write them down and keep the list in a safe place.

Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Phishing scams are fake emails or messages that try to steal your personal information. Here’s how to spot them:

• Check the Sender: Make sure the email is from someone you know or trust.
• Look at Links Carefully: Hover your mouse over links to see where they lead before clicking. You can usually see the URL in the bottom corner of the browser without clicking.
• Don’t Share Personal Info: Legitimate companies won’t ask for personal information through email.
• Verify Requests: If you’re unsure, contact the company directly using a phone number you know is real.

Keep Your Devices Secure

Make sure your computer, tablet, and smartphone are protected:

• Install Security Software: Use antivirus and anti-malware programs.
• Update Regularly: Keep your software and apps updated.
• Use a Firewall: This helps block harmful attacks from the internet.
• Don’t click on suspicious links or websites: Many viruses can be inadvertently downloaded through fake advertisements for antivirus software. Make sure your purchases are from legitimate websites.

Be Safe on Social Media

Social media is great for staying in touch, but use it safely:

• Privacy Settings: Adjust settings so only your friends and family can see your posts.
• Be Cautious with Friends: Only accept friend requests from people you know. Many profiles can be scammers or “bots” that are looking to acquire your information.
• Don’t Share Too Much: Avoid posting personal information like your address, phone number, or travel plans.

Shop Online Safely

Online shopping is convenient, but be careful:

• Stick to Trusted Sites: Shop on websites you know and trust.
• Look for HTTPS: Make sure the web address starts with “https://” which means it’s secure.
• Use Credit Cards: They offer better protection than debit cards for online purchases.

Beware of Scams

There are many scams to watch out for:

• Tech Support Scams: Scammers pretend to be tech support to get access to your computer. If you get an unexpected call or message, don’t give them access. Contact the company directly to check.
• Gift Card Scams: Scammers ask for payment with gift cards. Legitimate companies and government agencies will never ask for gift cards as payment. If someone asks for gift cards, it’s a scam.
• Lottery or Prize Scams: If you’re told you’ve won a prize but need to pay a fee to claim it, it’s a scam.

Keep Learning

Stay informed about online safety:

• Take Safety Courses: Many organizations offer free courses on internet safety.
• Follow Trusted Advice: Look for advice from reliable sources like official and recognizable institutions or companies. Answers from search engines are not always reliable.

Staying safe online doesn’t have to be complicated. By creating strong passwords, being cautious of phishing and other scams, keeping your devices secure, using social media wisely, shopping on trusted websites, and continuing to learn about online safety, you can enjoy the internet without worry. Always remember, if something feels off, it’s okay to ask for help or verify the information with those you trust. Stay safe and enjoy the digital world with appropriate caution!