Helping Seniors Stay Secure Online: Tips to Avoid Scams and Hackers
In today’s digital world, things like shopping, paying bills, and staying connected online have become part of everyday life. While this makes things easier, seniors are often targeted by hackers, fake sellers, and scams trying to steal their money or personal information. This guide breaks down simple and practical steps to help seniors stay safe online, avoid scams, and protect their accounts.
Hackers and scammers tend to go after seniors because they assume older adults might be less familiar with technology or more trusting. The good news? With the right tools and tips, staying safe online is simple and totally doable for everyone.
Common Online Scams You Should Know About
Before we get into safety tips, here are some common scams that seniors should be aware of:
- Fake sellers create websites to trick you into buying worthless or fake products.
- Phishing emails look like they’re from trusted companies but try to steal your passwords or credit card details.
- Tech support scams claim your computer has a virus and try to convince you to pay for “repairs.”
- Lottery or prize scams promise big winnings but ask for money up front.
- Romance scams involve someone pretending to build a relationship with you online, but all they really want is your money.
8 Tips to Help Seniors Stay Safe Online
1- Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Passwords are your first line of defense. Use at least 12 characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Don’t use simple words like birthdays or “12345.” A password manager can help keep your passwords secure without needing to memorize them.
2- Be Wary of Emails and Messages
Scammers often send fake emails or texts to trick you. Watch for:
- Typos or strange email addresses.
- Emails asking for personal info, even if they look real.
If you’re unsure about a message—like a receipt or cancellation notice—go to the company’s official website or contact them directly to confirm.
3- Stick to Trusted Websites When Shopping
When shopping online, especially for higher-value items like an electric wheelchair or other mobility products, only buy from trusted websites. Look for:
- “https” in the website URL.
- A padlock symbol near the address bar.
Before purchasing, search for company reviews or complaints online. Scammers often rely on fake websites to lure in unsuspecting shoppers with deals that are too good to be true.
4- Ignore Tech Support Pop-Ups
Pop-up warnings that say “Your computer is infected” are usually scams. Legitimate companies like Microsoft or Apple don’t send alerts this way. Instead, use trusted antivirus software to protect your computer and consult a family member or professional if something seems suspicious.
5- Protect Your Personal Information
Keep your sensitive info—like passwords, credit card numbers, or Social Security details—private. Avoid oversharing on social media, too. Posting things like your address, phone number, or travel plans can make you an easy target for scammers.
6- Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2FA is a quick and effective way to keep your accounts secure. Even if someone guesses your password, they’ll need an extra verification code sent to your phone or email to log in. Most banks, email services, and shopping sites offer this option in account settings.
7- Install Antivirus Software and Update Your Devices
Installing antivirus software protects you from harmful websites and viruses. Programs like Norton or Avast can regularly scan your devices for threats. Keeping your computer and smartphone updated is just as important—updates often fix security holes that hackers exploit.
8- Be Careful with New Online “Friends”
Scammers often create fake profiles on social media or dating sites. If someone you barely know starts asking for money, gifts, or personal information, that’s a red flag. Always verify new connections before trusting them.
Empowering Seniors to Browse Safely
At Mobility Creations, we believe that the internet should empower seniors, not intimidate them. Whether you're researching tools to improve your independence, like an electric wheelchair, or staying connected with loved ones, taking simple precautions ensures you enjoy the benefits of being online without falling into scams.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed or Hacked
If you think someone hacked your account or tricked you, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
- Change your passwords immediately, starting with your email and banking accounts.
- Call your bank if you shared payment info or suspect fraud.
- Run a full antivirus scan on your computer.
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Quick Checklist to Stay Safe Online
- Use strong, unique passwords.
- Watch out for suspicious emails and links.
- Shop only on trusted, secure websites.
- Install and update antivirus software.
- Turn on two-factor authentication.
- Keep personal information private.
- Be cautious of new online “friends” asking for money.
Final Thoughts
Staying safe online doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these tips, seniors can feel confident using the internet for shopping, chatting with loved ones, or staying up to date. If something ever feels off, it’s okay to stop and ask a trusted family member or friend for help. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Share this guide with loved ones to help them stay secure—because the internet should be a safe space for everyone.