Ensuring the safety of seniors online is crucial, as they may be more vulnerable to various online threats. If you have a parent or grandparent who didn’t grow up in the digital age, he or she may be curious and enthusiastic about exploring the technology. However, they probably lack the skills to do it safely. Consider utilizing the following tips to set your senior loved one up for success in an online world fraught with danger.
1. Set Seniors up for Success
If you grew up with the internet in your home and school, you probably find yourself seamlessly incorporating the technology into your daily life. You’ve learned effective ways to protect your personal information from thieves, and you’re subconsciously analyzing information to spot scams. Unfortunately, seniors with no experience online won’t have these skills, and it will take some time to learn them.
Thankfully, tools are available to smooth newcomers’ transitions into the online world. For example, OneLaunch is software that helps to simplify the Windows taskbar and dock. This allows you to set up your loved one’s computer to maximize ease of use while minimizing frustration. The easier it is for a person to log on and quickly navigate to their destination, the more likely they will be to continue using the tools available.
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2. Preach Password Security
It’s probably second nature to you by now, but senior citizens may need extensive training in creating and saving effective passwords. Encourage them to avoid using the names of family members or pets in their passwords. Remind them to incorporate small and capital letters, numbers, and special characters. You may also need to coach them on the best way to securely store and retrieve login and password information.
3. Reveal the Risks of Online Shopping and Banking
Shopping and banking online is a great way for folks to maintain connections and live independently when their age or health conditions limit mobility. After all, tech-savvy seniors can order everything from their prescription medications to their groceries online and arrange for home delivery.
Unfortunately, online shopping and banking can lead to monetary and identity theft. Coach your senior student on how to identify phishing attempts and other common scams initiated by bad actors. Encourage them to only engage with reputable online merchants and to use only secure online payment methods.
4. Encourage Safe Socializing
Social media platforms offer healthy connection opportunities for the elderly. Thanks to the internet, your loved one may get the chance to engage with folks he or she hasn’t seen in years. However, you should caution seniors about the risks of sharing too much.
If they allow it, oversee the creation of your loved one’s social media accounts. This way, you can review and update the privacy settings to ensure they are appropriate. Caution them against posting too much personal information that others may use maliciously.
The digital world offers a wealth of exciting opportunities for senior citizens as long as they have the skills to stay safe online. With a little time and patience, you can coach your loved one through the basics and ensure they have an enjoyable and secure experience online. Read more exciting articles on Tech new master
