Internet Safety for Seniors: How to Stay Safe Online

Internet dating, buying online, and socializing over the computer have become a daily norm for most people. It is important to be careful with how much you share online and who you share it with. This is especially true for people in senior living who may not be familiar with online spaces. Read on to learn more about internet safety for seniors.

Look Out for Deceptive Tactics

There are many people online looking to take advantage of seniors in order to get money or personal information. To stay safe online, those in senior living should learn to look out for deceptive tactics, scams, and other predatory behavior.

If someone you don’t know seems overly friendly online, move forward with caution when talking to them. Someone who overshares personal information about themselves and expects your personal information in return may not have good intentions. Always be wary of anyone who is too eager to get to know you on the internet.

Do Not Share Passwords

Another tip for protecting yourself online is keeping passwords to yourself. Do not share passwords or personal login information with anyone you do not know very well. Sharing passwords with strangers or those you do not know well gives them open access to your personal financial information, health records, and more.

Navigate Social Media Carefully

A common issue among older adults is sharing too much personal information on social media. For many people in senior living, social media is a very new concept. It can be fun to share your life with friends and family online, but it is important to navigate these spaces carefully.

In order to stay safe, your social media accounts should be set to private. Only allow close friends and family to see what you post, and always be cautious about oversharing. Addresses, medical information, bank information, and personal family details should not be shared in these spaces.

Consult Before Sharing

If you’re worried about your safety online, speak with someone you trust for help. Anything that gives you pause or makes you feel unsure should be discussed with a close friend or family member before moving forward.

For example, if you are sent a strange email with a link to something unfamiliar, show it to someone who is more knowledgeable about online safety before clicking on anything or providing any of your information to someone new.

Staying Safe Online as a Senior

Do you enjoy spending time online while in senior living? The internet is a lot of fun and very helpful when used wisely. To stay safe online, look out for deceptive tactics, consult with a family member, and avoid sharing too much on social media.

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