Online Safety Tips for Seniors
Online Safety

With more older adults connecting with loved ones, managing bank accounts, and online shopping, the internet plays a bigger role in everyday life. While it offers more ways to stay connected and independent, online threats like scams, phishing, and hackers are targeting seniors at a higher rate and defrauding them out of more money than any other age group, according to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

Learning a few key online safety tips for seniors, and sharing them with family members and caregivers, can help avoid many of the common risks and keep everyone feeling secure and confident.

Essential Online Safety Tips for Seniors

The internet can open windows to the world, but it does bring certain vulnerabilities. Seniors should know some basic strategies to spot scams, keep personal details safe, and enjoy the positive sides of being online.

• Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
• Be careful with emails, phone calls, and messages from unknown sources.
• Never give out sensitive information, like your Social Security number, credit card numbers, or bank account details, unless you know who you are talking to.
• Make sure your devices are protected with antivirus software and security software, and also ensure that both are updated regularly.
• Be extra careful on social networking sites or when using public Wi-Fi.

Let's break down these online safety tips for seniors in more detail.

Creating Strong Passwords and Account Security

A strong password is like a sturdy lock on your front door—hackers and scammers don't like hard work. Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words, your birthday, or easy-to-guess phrases. For example, “Pineapple%26!Daisy” is much safer than “grandma123”.

It's okay to write your passwords down, as long as you keep the list in a safe spot that isn’t right beside your computer. Even better, consider using a password manager—these tools remember your secure passwords, so you don't have to.

Enable two-factor authentication (sometimes called 2FA or multi-factor authentication) whenever you can. This adds an extra layer of cybersecurity to your accounts by asking for a second piece of information, like a code sent to your smartphone.

Recognizing and Avoiding Common Online Scams

Scammers work around the clock to trick internet users, especially older adults, into sharing sensitive information or sending money. The most common scams targeting seniors include:

• Phishing scam emails: Fake messages ask you to click a link or download an attachment. These can install malicious software on your device or steal your details.
• Tech support scams: Callers pretend to be from well-known companies, insisting your computer needs fixing. They’ll ask for payment or access to your PC.
• Gift card scams: A stranger (sometimes pretending to be a family member) asks you to buy gift cards and share the numbers.
• Fake charities and lottery scams: You might get congratulated for winning a prize or pressured to send money for a cause that doesn't exist.

Be alert for red flags, like urgent requests, spelling mistakes, or offers that seem too good to be true. The NCOA highlights top online scams targeting older adults so you can learn more about what to watch for in real-world situations.

If you get a suspicious email, call, or even a text message, never respond or click any links. Hang up or delete the message. You can always verify with your loved ones in person or over a safe, known phone number.

Safeguarding Personal Information Online

Keeping your private information private is one of the best defenses against online scams. Here’s how you can protect yourself:

• Never share Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, bank account info, or passwords through email, text messages, or over the phone unless you are absolutely sure of the recipient's identity.
• Use privacy settings on social media so only trusted friends and family members can see your details.
• Be cautious when shopping online—double-check the web address has a lock symbol and starts with “https://”.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi for online banking or purchases, as these networks are easier for scammers to monitor.

For even more advice about what to do if you or a loved one is targeted, the FBI’s Elder Fraud page provides important safety tips and support resources.

Digital Communication: Staying Connected Safely

Online calls and social networking sites give seniors a chance to connect and share with friends and family, even when far away. But it’s just as important to approach these tools with care.

Safe Video Calls and Online Meetings

Platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype are wonderful for chatting face-to-face. To keep things safe:

• Only accept meeting invites or calls from people you know.
• Set meetings as private and use required passwords when available.
• Avoid sharing personal details (like your home address or financial information) during calls.
• Learn how to adjust privacy controls so only invited guests can join your calls.

Keeping your software updated helps protect you from spyware, malware, and pop-ups that could try to trick you during a conversation.

Protecting Privacy on Social Networks

Social networking sites offer connection, but they also create risks. When using Facebook, Instagram, or similar platforms:

• Set your privacy settings so only trusted friends can see your posts.
• Avoid accepting friend requests from people you don’t know in person.
• Watch for misleading content or messages from scammers pretending to be others.
• Never post sensitive information, such as your full birthday, phone number, or details about when you’re away from home.

If you have doubts about requests or messages, don't answer. You can learn more about how scams that target seniors work at the Senior Scams section on texasattorneygeneral.gov.

Get in Touch With The Gatesworth

A supportive community makes all the difference. If you are considering an independent living community that values both online security and physical safety, explore our community. Share these internet safety tips with your family members and caregivers to stay safe online always.