Most seniors in the US are now online. In 2018, around 66% of Americans aged 65 years and above were internet users, a statistic that has likely increased over time. The internet is an easy way to access the latest news, get medical details, manage appointments, access medical records, renew prescriptions, as well as stay connected to family. It is imperative that we consider the internet safety of our senior loved ones.
The internet has made it convenient and easier to access services and socialize with people. However, it is also populated with scammers out to swindle unsuspecting users of their money. There are also a lot of cyberbullies and stalkers that can make your online experience uncomfortable. Some could even infringe on your actual life should they get your residential details.
As such, seniors should be aware of the internet safety measures they can implement to ensure a more pleasant online experience. Below are some actions you could take to ensure a safe session online.
Internet Safety Tips for Seniors
Should Seniors Share Their Passwords Online?
Passwords are like a gate pass that ensures only authorized individuals can access sensitive information, thus keeping your details safe. While it is understandable that you might be keen to share them due to problems recollecting such information or navigating the sites, you should only designate such information to someone you can trust to manage your accounts.
How Can Seniors Use Privacy Settings for Online Safety?
2. Use Privacy Settings
Before posting on any social media website, you must read and understand its privacy policies and settings. Most social sites have privacy settings that help you regulate those that view your information. Facebook, for instance, has extensive settings that enable you to restrict the audience to your posts. You could limit it to friends or choose to share it with all users.
What Should Seniors Be Careful About Sharing Online?
3. Be Careful About What You Share
How Should Seniors Report Online Abuse?
4. Report Abuse
Why Should Seniors Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links?
5. Avoid Clicking Links Right Away
Where Should Seniors Shop Safely Online?
6. Only Shop at Reputable Online Retailers
Why Should Seniors Use Credit Cards for Online Payments?
7. Use Credit Cards Most of the Time
How Can Seniors Identify Secure Websites?
8. Always Use Secure Websites
Check whether the website you are using is secure. You can know this by checking the browser for the “HTTPS.”
Why Should Seniors Research Organizations Before Donating Online?
9. Research a Corporation Before Making an Online Donation
Emails and targeted digital advertisements can be overwhelming for seniors. It is thus important to research an organization before donating if you ever get an email or an ad.
How Often Should Seniors Check Their Financial Accounts for Online Safety?
Seniors should make a habit of checking their financial accounts regularly to quickly identify and address any suspicious transactions. Sometimes, financial details are compromised without immediate notice, and regular monitoring allows for early detection of red flags. This proactive approach enables seniors to promptly shut down compromised credit cards or accounts, inhibiting further fraudulent activity and protecting their lifetime savings.
Sometimes seniors fail to realize their financial details have been compromised until it’s out of hand. The best internet safety tip to stay on top of such a scenario is to be alert of your financial accounts. It will enable you to read a red flag in case of any suspicious transaction. You will also be able to shut down any credit cards linked with the account to inhibit further fraudulent activity.
Mental Health has become far more recognized and talked about in recent years. As we age, our mental health needs also change. Learn more here: Build Positive Mental Health as You Age
By David Lasman – “Ask Medicare Dave” | President – Senior Healthcare Team
wwww.SeniorHealthcareTeam.com | 866-333-7340
Selecting the right healthcare plan through Medicare can be overwhelming and downright stressful. Senior Healthcare Team is a nationwide resource that provides guidance and support about Medicare to seniors at no cost to them and helps them to choose the most suitable insurance plan tailored to their specific needs and budget. Our goal is to educate and empower our clients to make the best decisions regarding their healthcare and clear up the confusion of Medicare. At Senior Healthcare Team, we aren’t partial to any one insurance company. Our loyalty is to our clients and our mission is to provide them with the best healthcare options at the very lowest cost.