As our loved ones age, it is important to ensure they enjoy their newfound freedom and stay safe in an increasingly digital world.
With more people using the internet for everything from staying in touch with family to managing their finances, the risks of online scams and identity theft are on the rise. While your parent or loved one may be tech-savvy, ensuring they’re aware of common online threats and how to protect themselves is still essential.
- Use secure passwords
- Enable 2-factor authentication
- Stay informed about online scams
- Protect against phishing scams
- Be skeptical about unsolicited contacts
- Keep software updated
- Install antivirus protection
- Ensure Wi-Fi network security
- Be mindful when sharing personal information
- Regularly review privacy settings
Tips for Staying Safe Online
Whether you’re just getting started online or a seasoned user, staying safe in the digital world is important. These simple yet effective tips are designed to help everyone navigate the internet more securely, no matter their level of tech experience.
Use Secure Passwords
Creating strong, unique passwords is the first step in protecting online accounts. Avoid simple or common passwords like “123456” or “password,” as these can be easily guessed. Instead, choose a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
Personal information, such as birthdays or anniversaries, should also be avoided—these are often easy to figure out. If keeping track of passwords feels overwhelming, consider using a password manager to securely store them and make managing your accounts easier.
Enable 2-Factor Authentication
Set up 2-factor authentication (2FA) on your loved one’s online accounts whenever possible. This extra security step requires a password and a secondary verification, like a code sent to a phone or through an app. While it might feel like an extra step, it adds a crucial layer of protection and makes it much more difficult for anyone to gain unauthorized access to their accounts.
Stay Informed About Online Scams
Keeping up to date with the latest online scams is one of the best ways to protect your loved ones from fraud. Trusted resources like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and AARP offer valuable insights into common scams targeting older adults and tips on how to spot them.
Sharing this information with your family and regularly discussing potential threats can help them stay one step ahead of scammers.
Protect Against Phishing Scams
Phishing scams are attempts to steal personal information by pretending to be trustworthy sources. They often appear in the form of legitimate emails or messages.
To protect your loved one, always check the sender’s email address carefully and be cautious about clicking links or opening attachments from unknown sources. If you’re ever unsure, avoid providing any information and double-check with the organization directly.
Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Contacts
If your loved one receives unexpected emails, calls, or messages from unfamiliar sources, it is important to be skeptical. Scammers often pose as representatives from trusted organizations to gather personal information.
Encourage your loved one to verify the legitimacy of any unsolicited contact before sharing any details.
Keep Software Updated
Ensure all devices—like computers, smartphones, and tablets—are running the latest software updates. These updates often fix security vulnerabilities that hackers could exploit.
Setting devices to update automatically can help keep everything secure without worrying about missing important patches.
Install Antivirus Software
Consider investing in trusted antivirus software to protect against harmful viruses and malware. Regular scans can help identify and remove potential threats. Many antivirus programs also offer real-time protection and anti-phishing features, further safeguarding your devices from online risks.
Ensure Wi-Fi Network Security
Help protect your loved one’s internet connection by securing their home Wi-Fi network with a strong password and encryption. These steps add extra layers of protection to their online activities.
Encourage them to avoid using public Wi-Fi for tasks like online banking, as these networks can be more vulnerable. If they live in a senior community, their internet is likely already secured, but it’s a good idea to double-check with the staff to be sure.
Be Mindful with Personal Information
Encourage your loved one to be cautious about sharing personal details online. Sensitive information like addresses, phone numbers, or financial data should never be shared on social media or unverified websites.
Once something is posted online, it’s difficult to take it back, so it’s important to stay vigilant and think twice before clicking “post.”
Regularly Review Privacy Settings
It’s important to help your loved one review and update privacy settings on their social media and online accounts. Adjusting these settings lets you control who sees their information and limit what is shared.
Regularly checking these settings ensures that personal details stay protected and only the intended people have access.
Navigate the Online World Safely with Summer Village Senior Living
At Summer Village Senior Living, we believe that technology can enhance the lives of our residents, making it easier for them to stay connected and engaged while ensuring their safety and well-being.
Whether it’s through the Bridge App, telehealth services, or our innovative wellness programs, we’re here to help families feel confident in managing their loved one’s care online and beyond.
If you have questions or want to learn more about how we can support your family with digital safety or our technology-driven care services, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you and your loved one every step of the way.
