In recent years, it’s become simpler and easier for seniors to browse the internet.
According to the Pew Research Center, approximately 59% of seniors use the internet regularly. It’s a convenient way to keep in touch with family and friends, utilize it for banking and personal bills, and to find useful information such as the article you’re reading now. In fact, the Gerontological Society of America found that using the internet can actually reduce depression in seniors, connecting them to others in very positive ways.
Unfortunately, the internet is not always a safe place to be. There are 4 basic guidelines to follow that will help protect you!
Basic Security
Your installed operating systems, internet browser, and user software must be continually updated to not only ensure that programs function properly but also as a safeguard against possible threats. Computers should also have recommended anti-virus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware software installed as a safety precaution. Households using wireless technology or external hard drives should also implement password options for their software.
Email and other online accounts must be secured with strong passwords. Creating phrases that combine upper and lowercase letters in addition to numbers and symbols enhance security by making them virtually impossible to hack. That means you don’t want a password composed of your pet’s name and your birth year! It’s also very helpful to use different passwords for different accounts. To help remember your passwords, write them down and store them somewhere secure.
Fraud Alerts
Beware of emails or messages that claim you won a contest or a lottery in which you never entered. Other scams include unscrupulous individuals claiming to be a relative in need of money or someone requesting assistance with fund transfers. Be on the lookout for obviously misspelled words and grammatical errors that often indicate scammers from a foreign country.
Other signs of fraud include urgent messages from seemingly authentic institutions or organizations. Never supply anyone with financial information, passwords, names, addresses, social security numbers or other personal information. If you’ve been contacted by someone that looks like they work at your bank, for example, but they’re asking for your social security number, beware! An official organization will already have this information and would not need to ask for it.
As a rule of thumb, avoid opening emails from addresses you don’t recognize and people you don’t know personally.
Online Purchases
While looking to book a trip or make a purchase, you may stumble across a deal that seems too good to be true. It probably is. Buying and selling online is a great way to shop, especially if you have physical limitations. Just make sure you choose a reputable vendor. Ask your friends and family where they shop online, or if they know of a certain website you’re considering using. You can also do an internet search for online reviews from others.
When you make transactions online and use personal information that requires the transfer of funds, make sure that the site has indications that it is secure. Legitimate sites commonly feature security emblems and privacy notices. Many have https addresses that include a closed padlock next to the site address. Never enter personal information on pop-up windows.
The internet is a useful resource for seniors, but you need to be equipped with the right knowledge beforehand. Apply these principles and you can enjoy your time online while also staying safe!
