For seniors, navigating the internet can sometimes feel overwhelming. It's often crucial to be cautious as certain scams specifically target older individuals. In this blog post from Senior Helpers Lancaster County, we'll discuss the importance of personal information security and share some dos and don'ts to help seniors stay safe while surfing the web. Let's explore the ways to keep your internet experience safe and enjoyable!
Dos for Internet Safety
When it comes to internet safety for seniors, there are several best practices that can significantly decrease the chances of your personal information falling into the wrong hands.
Create Strong, Unique Passwords
One of the most critical steps in protecting your online accounts is creating strong, unique passwords for each one. Aim to use a mix of characters, numbers, and symbols to make it harder for potential hackers to crack your password.
It's also a good idea to avoid using easily identifiable personal information, such as your birthdate or family member names, as this information is often readily available. Lastly, try to change your passwords regularly – every three to six months is ideal – to keep your accounts secure.
Be Cautious on Social Media
Social media can be a fantastic way to stay connected with friends and family, but be mindful of your privacy settings and the amount of personal information you share. Adjust your account settings to limit who can access your posts and personal details, and be cautious when accepting friend requests or connecting with people you're not familiar with.
Remember, once you share something online, it can be challenging to remove it entirely, so think twice before posting sensitive information.
Don'ts for Internet Safety
While there are positive steps to take to secure your personal information, there are also specific actions to avoid that can put your information at risk.
Don't Click on Suspicious Links in Emails
Phishing scams often involve emails with links that appear legitimate but direct you to a fraudulent website designed to steal your information. To avoid falling for these scams, be cautious when clicking on links in emails, especially if you don't recognize the sender. If you're unsure about a link, hover over it with your cursor to reveal the web address and ensure it matches the expected destination.
Don't Share Personal Information with Unknown Sources
As a general rule of thumb, be wary of unsolicited requests for personal information, whether it's through email, phone calls, or messages on social media. Before providing your details, verify the legitimacy of the person or organization making the request. For example, if you receive an email claiming to be from your bank, contact the bank directly through their official website or phone number to verify the request.
Don't Use Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Transactions
While public Wi-Fi may seem convenient, it can come with risks to your personal information. Unsecured networks can be easily compromised, allowing hackers to intercept your data. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions, such as online banking and shopping, and consider investing in a virtual private network (VPN) to create a secure connection when using public networks.
Get Assistance with Technological Tasks
By following the dos and don'ts of internet safety outlined above, seniors can better protect themselves online and enjoy the benefits of the internet without putting their personal information at risk. If you live in Denver, Stevens, Ephrata, Akron, Lititz, Lancaster, Leola, Manheim, New Holland, or Mount Joy and need assistance with senior care, contact Senior Helpers Lancaster County. We're here to provide the support and care you need to make the most of your golden years, both online and offline.