Cyber Security Warnings for Seniors

By Marlene Diaz | September 8, 2017 |

Computers have changed the way we work, shop and get entertained. However, computer users of all ages need to be cautious about keeping their money and their identity safe when online. It’s all too easy for criminals to exploit any sensitive information shared online and seniors are often the most vulnerable to attacks. Family caregivers need to incorporate cyber security education as part of their elderly home care plan and keep aging loved ones safe from cyber crime.

Home Care Services Issaquah WA – Cyber Security Warnings for Seniors

Communication is key to keeping seniors informed about possible cyber attacks. Since seniors haven’t spent much time online or with computers, they often have no idea what’s out there or how to protect their information.

Here are a few important steps that family caregivers can take to make sure their elderly loved ones stay safe online.

Limit Personal Information Online

It seems like everyone online wants to get information, even legitimate businesses. Seniors need to know that they should never give out their personal information on websites unless absolutely necessary. They should also never follow links from emails that promise great prices or opportunities in exchange for a little information. Elderly people should also resist providing private information, even innocently, on social media. It’s too easy for scammers to gather details about someone from casual posts. Privacy settings on social media accounts are important, too, but most seniors don’t know how to go about setting those up.

Avoid Phishing Scams

Seniors may not even know the term “phishing” but yet they are the most likely to fall for such scams. Phishing is when scammers sending emails that look as if they are from reputable companies to unsuspecting recipients. They do this to trick people into revealing personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers. Seniors need to learn that they shouldn’t open emails from people they don’t know and never open up attachments. They should never reply or respond to emails saying that they’ve won a prize or money, or that they have to act now to get great discounts.

Install Security Software

Most seniors are unaware that computers can get viruses and malware that can tap into their private information. Family caregivers should teach them how to install security software and how to ensure that the latest versions and updates are in place. There are plenty of anti-virus programs to choose from and taking this simple but powerful step can keep computers protected.

Pick Good Passwords

Everyone should choose passwords that are as secure as possible, and experts say that the hardest ones to hack are combinations of letters, numbers and characters. Seniors may want to use those easy passwords like their spouse’s name or their high school mascot, but those are just too easy for scammers. It’s also a good habit to change passwords regularly, even every few months.

Home care services means more than just providing food and shelter. For family caregivers, it means looking out for the interests and security of elderly loved ones, especially online. It’s important to push cyber education so that seniors are empowered to enjoy computer technology while staying safe.

Source: https://www.cybersecurity-insiders.com/how-to-protect-elderly-from-cyber-attacks/

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Issaquah WA, contact the caring staff at Hospitality Home Care today. Call us at (206) 966-6552.

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Marlene Diaz

Care Supervisor at Hospitality Home Care

Marlene brings to Hospitality Home Care's Care Supervisor Team an unprecedented level of passion for caring for others and a wealth of knowledge and understanding in the care services field. Marlene has worked in the healthcare field for more than 15 years in a variety of settings including, adult family home administration, home care HR supervising and working with specialty populations including dementia, mental health and developmental disabilities. Throughout this time Marlene has also maintained her caregiver credentials that she obtained as a teenager because, while her knowledge is best served helping to train caregivers and assist families to get the care they need, her heart is most fulfilled when she is providing care to others. When she is not in the office, you will most likely find Marlene caring for her family, or spending time with her friends.