Elderwerks Senior Resource Directory 2025/2026

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Staying Safe Online: A Guide to Internet Safety, Phishing, Malware, and Online Scams for Older Adults and Caregivers

By: Tony LaPalio Date: 9/24/24

In today’s digital world, the internet opens up countless opportunities for older adults to stay connected, informed, and entertained. From video calls with family to online shopping and banking, the internet can be a great resource. However, just like the physical world, there are risks. Understanding these risks—and how to protect yourself or your loved ones—is essential for anyone venturing online, especially older adults who may not be as familiar with some of the more recent developments in technology. In this guide, we’ll explore key topics like internet safety, phishing, malware, and online scams. We’ll break down these complex issues into simple terms to help you stay safe while enjoying all the benefits the internet has to offer. In today’s digital world, the internet opens up countless opportunities for older adults to stay connected, informed, and entertained. From video calls with family to online shopping and banking, the internet can be a great resource. However, just like the physical world, there are risks. Understanding these risks—and how to protect yourself or your loved ones—is essential for anyone venturing online, especially older adults who may not be as familiar with some of the more recent developments in technology. In this guide, we’ll explore key topics like internet safety, phishing, malware, and online scams. We’ll break down these complex issues into simple terms to help you stay safe while enjoying all the benefits the internet has to offer. Internet Safety: The Basics Internet safety starts with understanding the importance of securing your devices and data. It’s easy to think, "It won’t happen to me," but studies show that older adults are often targeted by online scammers. In fact, according to the FBI, seniors lost over $1 billion to online scams in 2022 alone. But by following a few basic safety rules, you can dramatically reduce the risk of becoming a victim. Tip 1: Keep Your Software Updated One of the easiest ways to stay safe online is by keeping your devices up to date. Whether it’s your computer, smartphone, or tablet, updates often include important security fixes that help protect you from hackers. Many devices allow you to turn on automatic updates, which is a good option if you’re not comfortable managing them yourself. Tip 2: Use Strong Passwords A strong password is your first line of defense against cybercriminals. A good password should be long (at least 12 characters), unique, and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager to help create and store secure passwords for you. These tools can be a lifesaver if Internet Safety: The Basics Internet safety starts with understanding the importance of securing your devices and data. It’s easy to think, "It won’t happen to me," but studies show that older adults are often targeted by online scammers. In fact, according to the FBI, seniors lost over $1 billion to online scams in 2022 alone. But by following a few basic safety rules, you can dramatically reduce the risk of becoming a victim. Tip 1: Keep Your Software Updated One of the easiest ways to stay safe online is by keeping your devices up to date. Whether it’s your computer, smartphone, or tablet, updates often include important security fixes that help protect you from hackers. Many devices allow you to turn on automatic updates, which is a good option if you’re not comfortable managing them yourself. Tip 2: Use Strong Passwords A strong password is your first line of defense against cybercriminals. A good password should be long (at least 12 characters), unique, and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Consider using a password manager to help create and store secure passwords for you. These tools can be a lifesaver if you struggle to remember your passwords, and they add an extra layer of protection. Tip 3: Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi Free public Wi-Fi can be tempting, but it’s often unsecure, meaning anyone nearby can you struggle to remember your passwords, and they add an extra layer of protection. Tip 3: Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi Free public Wi-Fi can be tempting, but it’s often unsecure, meaning anyone nearby can potentially access your information. Avoid doing any sensitive activities, like online banking or shopping, when using public Wi-Fi. If you must, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to add a layer of security. Understanding Phishing: Don’t Take the Bait Phishing is one of the most common tactics scammers use to trick people into giving away personal information, such as passwords or credit card numbers. Phishing typically involves receiving an email, text message, or phone call that looks legitimate but is actually designed to steal your information. These messages often appear to come from a trusted source, such as your bank or a well-known company. They may ask you to "verify your account" by clicking a link, which takes you to a fake website where you unknowingly provide personal details. Tip 4: Double-Check the Source If you receive an unexpected email or message asking for personal information, take a moment before acting. Check the sender’s email address or phone number. Often, scammers will use addresses that look similar to legitimate ones but may include small typos or strange characters. Tip 5: Don’t Click on Suspicious Links Instead of clicking on links in an email or text message, go directly to the company’s official website to log in or find contact information. This ensures you’re not being redirected to a fraudulent site.

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