Staying connected online can help older adults communicate with family members, manage finances, and access telehealth services. At the same time, internet use may expose people to scams. Learning common online safety practices may help older adults and their loved ones recognize suspicious activity and make more informed decisions online.
Key Takeaways
- Older adults may encounter digital scams through phone calls, emails, text messages, social media posts, and pop-up messages.
- Common scams include phishing emails, tech support scams, spoofed phone calls, malware, and online dating scams.
- Strong passwords, software updates, and two-factor authentication may help improve online security.
Common Online Scams
Phishing Scams
Phishing scams often involve fraudulent emails or text messages that look legitimate but are run by people attempting to steal sensitive information or money. In other words, phishers impersonate a trusted entity, then use that fake authority to ask people to click suspicious links, “confirm” bank account information, or provide passwords, credit card details, or Social Security numbers.
Spoof Phone Calls
Spoof phone calls occur when scammers manipulate caller ID information to make a call appear to be from a trusted source. A caller may pretend to represent a bank, healthcare provider, Social Security office, or law enforcement agency.
Grandparent Scams
Grandparent scams typically involve someone posing as a grandchild or another family member to claim an emergency. The caller may claim to urgently need money for bail or medical situations. Scammers often pressure people to act quickly before verifying the story with other family members.
Malware
Malware refers to harmful software that may infect devices through suspicious downloads, email attachments, or pop-up advertisements. Malware can sometimes allow hackers to steal information, monitor activity, or gain remote access to a device.
Online Dating Scams
Online dating scams may occur through dating websites, apps, or social media. Scammers build emotional relationships before requesting financial assistance.
Tech Support Scams
Common tech support scams use pop-up messages claiming that a computer or device has a virus; to rectify the “issue,” the pop-up message encourages users to call a provided phone number. Once the scammer has the user on the phone, they request remote access to the computer to “fix” the issue. The scammer may then either “fix” a non-existent issue and request payment for their services or install spyware on the device.
12 Online Safety Tips for Older Adults and Families
Cybercriminals are crafty, but there are practical steps seniors can take to stay safe online.
1. Hang Up
If a call or online chat feels suspicious, individuals may choose to hang up or end the chat and then contact the organization they were trying to reach directly using an official phone number.
2. Create Strong Passwords
Using strong, unique passwords for different accounts may help reduce the risk of unauthorized account access. Password managers can help people organize passwords securely, so they do not need to memorize every login.
3. Report Potential Scams
People can report suspicious activity to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), local law enforcement, banks, or other appropriate agencies.
4. Use Two-factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication, as the name suggests, requires a second verification step (e.g., entering a code sent to an email address) when logging into an online account. This step may help protect accounts even if a password becomes compromised.
To make the most of two-factor authentication, it helps not to post answers to common security questions (e.g., “What is your mother’s maiden name?” or “What is the name of your childhood pet?”) online.
5. Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links
Emails, texts, or social media messages containing unfamiliar links or attachments may be fraudulent. Taking time to verify the sender before clicking links may help reduce exposure to malware.
6. Install Anti-malware Software
Anti-malware software may help detect harmful programs, suspicious downloads, and other cybersecurity threats. Security software typically works best when kept up to date regularly.
7. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Tasks
Public Wi-Fi networks may not always be secure. Some individuals choose to avoid accessing bank account information, entering passwords, or making purchases while connected to public internet networks.
8. Verify Requests for Sensitive Information
Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure individuals into sharing personal details quickly. Taking time to slow down and independently verify requests involving passwords, bank account information, Social Security numbers, or payment requests may help reduce the risk of fraud.
9. Update Privacy Settings
Reviewing privacy settings on devices, apps, and social media accounts may help limit the amount of personal information that is visible online. Adjusting settings may also reduce unwanted contact from strangers.
10. Register Phone Numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry
Registering phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry may not stop all scam calls, but it may help reduce certain types of unsolicited contact.
11. Consider Bill Autopay Options
Enrolling in autopay may mean fewer bills in the mail, reducing exposure to certain mail-related scams.
12. Educate Loved Ones About Common Scams
Discussing common scam tactics can help older adults feel more comfortable asking questions before responding to unexpected requests for money or sensitive information.
Staying Safe Online for Peace of Mind
Online safety for seniors begins with understanding common scams and learning how to recognize suspicious activity. While no strategy eliminates all online risks, thoughtful internet habits and open conversations may help support safer digital experiences for older adults and their families.
This article is for informational purposes only. It does not provide medical, financial, or legal guidance. Please direct any medical-related questions to a licensed healthcare provider.