Although the internet can be used as a source of information and entertainment, it can also be a dangerous place for people who know little about online safety. Seniors usually use the internet to communicate with friends and family members as well as for shopping and reading the news. If you want to help your loved ones and protect their privacy, it’s important to educate them about online safety.
Basic education when it comes to passwords, online shopping, and fake websites can pay dividends in the long run, especially for seniors. Keep reading to find out what your loved ones need to know next time they surf the internet.
Using Trustworthy Wi-Fi Networks
Personal information and bank details can easily be stolen by accessing the wrong Wi-Fi network. It’s advisable to instruct the elderly not to connect to public Wi-Fi unless it’s absolutely necessary. Using a personal Wi-Fi network is recommended, especially for activities such as online shopping.
Using Strong Passwords
Passwords are key to maintaining personal accounts and emails safe and private. However, using a standard password such as “1234” or “0000” is no longer a good idea. The elderly should be instructed on how to create stronger passwords that contain digits as well as symbols.
If necessary, these passwords should be noted down and the information should be kept away from prying eyes. Strong passwords are nearly impossible to break and this is how your loved ones can keep their identity and online privacy intact.
Avoiding Suspicious Emails
You should also educate your family members on how to identify potentially dangerous emails and avoid those as much as possible. Emails asking for passwords, personal details, or coming from unknown senders should be deleted. It’s highly recommended to instruct the elderly to only interact with emails coming from people they know.
Buying from Trustworthy Websites
Online shopping is a great advantage in our modern lives, but it can also be dangerous. Although a plethora of websites on the internet sell things such as clothes, accessories, and food, it’s advisable not to buy from all of them. For example, you should educate your loved ones on how to shop only from legitimate websites that are well-established and have trustworthy payment methods.
Using VPNs, if Possible
VPN stands for a virtual private network. It’s a type of encrypted, safe connection between your computer and any information you might access on the internet. VPNs are cheap, easy to use, and they can hide your real location and IP. If it is possible, you should install a VPN software on the computer used by your family members and instruct them on how to use it each time they surf the internet.
The internet brings a lot of good things, but also a plethora of traps for those who are inexperienced. Now you know how to protect your loved ones when browsing the internet and prevent them from falling into these traps. Your loved ones can also learn more about online safety through one of our well-established programs. Contact one of our team members today to find out all the details about our senior community.
