Seniors use the internet at least once per week to check their email, pay their bills online, and stay in touch with each other via social media. However, all this time online can expose them to scams and hacks such as tax fraud.
According to a survey done by Home Instead, Inc., franchisor for the Home Instead Senior Care network, 67% of older adults were victims of online fraud or hacking.
Encourage seniors to use cyber security in order to protect their identities and financial information. Protect Seniors Online was created in partnership by Home Instead and the National Cyber Security Alliance. www.ProtectSeniorsOnline.comThe, which is a free resource to educate older adults about cybersecurity. You can use this site to test your cybersecurity skills. “Can You Spot an Online Scam?” quiz.
These steps can be taken now by older adults to help protect themselves online.
*Password protect and secure devices, accounts. Secure passwords are used to lock all devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
*Think before clicking. If you are faced with urgent requests, such as emails asking for money, think before you click or get a second opinion. Scammers often get personal information by clicking on links. If in doubt, discard any unusual messages.
*Share with care. Home Instead surveyed more than 50% of senior citizens who use social media to keep in touch. Take care when sharing personal data. Adjust privacy settings to limit the number of people who can view it, and disable location sharing.
*Use security software. Install anti-virus and anti-spyware software and program it to run regularly. Pay attention to pop-up advertisements and emails. Many of these can contain malware that could infect your computer.
*Log out. Log out of apps and websites when you are finished. You could be at risk of privacy and security breaches if you leave apps or websites open on your computer screen.
*Recommend support. To help older adults who live alone, a trusted source such as a relative, friend or professional caregiver can be helpful.
You can also visit Protect Seniors Online for additional resources such as the interactive quiz. www.ProtectSeniorsOnline.com
You can find a Home Instead office near to you by visiting www.homeinstead.com/state.
