How to Protect Aging Parents and Relatives From Online Scams and Attacks
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How to Protect Aging Parents and Relatives From Online Scams and Attacks

Senior looking at a virus warning on computer screen

Care for aging parents and relatives is essential for some reasons. One of the reasons is that they are so vulnerable to identity theft, scams, or other online hazards, especially those that do not have anyone guiding and supporting them daily. It is important to have a caregiver, who knows how to protect your aging parents and relatives from online scams and attacks.

How to Implement Some Degree of Protection for Elderly Relatives Who Demonstrate Skill and Familiarity With Technology

Older adults' approach to the internet and technology is quite different from that of younger people. That's why you should take caution and have some degree of protection for elderly relatives familiar with the technology. Some measures include;

   1. Ensuring They Do Not Share Vital Information With Strangers

Scammers and identity thieves may try to get information directly from aging relatives online. You should ensure that your aging parents and relatives understand the importance of privacy and not give out vital information such as their bank account information to strangers. You should train and enlighten them about the enticing nature many thieves use in fetching information that they can later use to rob them of their fortune.

   2. Make Sure That They Directly Mail at the Post Office

The mailbox is a potential target. It is full of free-gift mailings, magazine solicitations, subscriptions, and other notices, and identity thieves may look through emails delivered to your parents. If it contains sensitive information, it could do significant harm like losing finances, assets, or privacy of important information.

  3. Keep Credit Cards Safe and Observe Them

It would be best to encourage your aging parents and relatives to pay cash for products and services and even in restaurants. The majority of scammers use credit cards to steal from unsuspecting people. Therefore, you should do everything possible to protect your parents' social security cards and other credit cards from falling into the wrong hands. It is better to encourage your aging parents to possess fewer credit cards or get rid of them completely.

Seniors are most vulnerable to identity theft, scams, or other online hazards because they are trusting, polite, and have substantial financial savings. Statistics about the growing threats and hazards from online scams and attacks show that more than $3 Billion is lost yearly on aging parents and relatives. This number is likely to increase as the world's population ages.

Signs of Potential Ongoing Scams and Tips for Automated Protection

There are numerous ways in which scammers and identity thieves can try to take advantage of older people. Signs of potential ongoing scams and tips for automated protection include;

Email Scams

Scammers may use email messages to get to older adults. They may send messages that they are in severe need of a small loan. Also, scammers may create emails asking for information to validate bank login. Once they have the information, they can easily access your accounts. For protection, always use a strong password for your email and avoid sharing it with anyone.

Impersonation in Social Networks 

Scammers may use social media sites to befriend you and claim that they know you. Other scammers use dating sites to convince the elderly that they are interested suitors, hoping to earn their trust while collecting information about them. Regarding social networking, never accept a person's request to befriend you without first validating their true identity.

If you want to keep your aging parents and relatives safe, get them to Senior Helpers Richmond West. We are the nation's premier provider of in-home senior care in Richmond, Midlothian, Petersburg, and Glen Allen, we also offer services to seniors looking for assistance with daily activities.