Safety Online 

Online safety is becoming increasingly important because many services such as banking, healthcare, and most communication now use digital technology. Having the skills needed to protect personal information and avoid scams, is necessary for staying safe. Scammers often target older adults through phone calls, emails, text messages, and fake websites. Common scams include fake Medicare calls, lottery scams, and requests for gift card payments. Updating software, avoiding suspicious links, and using antivirus protection. Simple habits can reduce online risks. Always check with someone that is proficient with scam messaging even if you’re 99% sure it’s not a scam. Having a second opinion on a strangely formatted message asking for sensitive information or any information on you without having contacted them first or recently is a reason for double-checking and suspicion. Online shopping requires caution. Seniors should only shop from trusted websites with secure payment systems. Looking for “https” in the website address helps confirm security.

Social Media 

 

Social media can help adults stay connected with family and friends across distance, but privacy settings should be reviewed with a second person, to see if there’s anything you could’ve skimmed over. Personal information such as addresses or financial information should never be posted publicly, this includes posting location (tagging yourself) while you’re still at the location you’ve posted. Letting all followers know your location sounds fun, but more often than not involves public settings on social media allowing anyone to know where you are. This allows strangers to be able to know if you’ve left your house, and where you currently are. Creating risky possible scenarios, from just the simple information of where you are. 

Reliable Sources/Information 

Recognizing reliable information online is also important. Trusted websites often end in .gov, .edu, .com, .net, or .org. Everyone should verify information with healthcare professionals when possible. Understanding the difference between reputable sources and untrustworthy sources can stop misinformation from the start, always try and find the original article that has a listed author or from a site generally recognized as reputable. Having strong passwords improves online security. Passwords should include letters, numbers, and symbols and should not be shared with strangers. Using different passwords for different accounts provides added protection, making sure the passwords aren’t easy to guess is a great first line of defense against cyberattacks or other attempts or online identity theft. All of these steps help keep your personal information, your information.

Links 

First Link 

  •  Provides free laptops for seniors (age 60+) for virtual care and social connection.

Second Link: 

  •  Connects seniors to local technology, including libraries and community centers.

Third Link

  •  Hosts digital training.

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