Internet Safety for Seniors

July 12, 2021

Internet Safety for Seniors

Being online as a senior can be so exciting and entertaining to read the information that is important to you. However, you must be cautious about e-mail scams. Since the pandemic e-mail scams have increased. Also, more spam e-mails have been accumulating. More scammers have been targeting seniors, minors, and young adults. Here is a shortlist of things to do when using the Internet:

1. Use the default settings of your computer firewall.

2. Do not open e-mails from people and companies you do not know.

3. Always check the e-mail address of the company before opening e-mails.

4. Make sure there are no misspelled words in the subject line of the e-mail.

5. Block e-mails with no subject lines, misspelled words, and look suspicious to you.

6. Do not give out bank account numbers, your home address, social security number, and other personal information online or on the telephone.

7. Block e-mails from people who ask you for money, inheritance, or bank transfers.

8. Use a spam filter and learn about using filters with your e-mail address.

9. Be careful in sharing pictures of your grandchildren, your children, and personal pictures on social media and in e-mails.

10. Always update your computer and internet browser.

11. Take advantage of taking free computer classes at your local library or senior center.

12. Have a colorful notebook to keep your passwords written and keep in a safe place.

When in doubt about using the internet, you can read websites that are specifically written for seniors. If you have AARP, you can read about internet safety and sign up for their e-mail newsletters. These newsletters will have information about the new online scams that are after information from seniors. Always view one website at a time and always log out from websites that have your information. Below are links for online safety.

Connect Safely:

https://www.connectsafely.org/seniors/?doing_wp_cron=1626125250.7168190479278564453125

Protect Seniors Online:

https://www.protectseniorsonline.com/resorces/cybersecurity-best-practices

Best Websites for Seniors

https://www.wizcase.com/blog/best-websites-for-seniors/