Why Internet Safety Matters for Seniors
The internet can be a powerful tool for connection, education, and entertainment. At Our Senior Safety, we believe that with the right information, seniors can use the internet confidently without feeling overwhelmed.
Unfortunately, scammers are targeting older adults at higher rates than ever. In 2022, over 88,000 adults aged 60 and older lost more than $3.1 billion to scams. Criminals often assume that seniors are more likely to have savings, may not be familiar with newer technologies, or might be less likely to report fraud.
We believe internet safety should be simple, accessible, and empowering. Whether you’re a senior or a caregiver, these tips can help protect your digital life and personal finances.
1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords for Every Account
Weak or reused passwords are one of the easiest ways for hackers to break into your online accounts. A strong password acts like a lock on your digital front door. Avoid simple choices like “123456” or birthdays.
Choose passwords that:
- Are at least 15 characters long
- Include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
- Avoid names, pets, or common phrases
Example: Bingo!Time2025!
If remembering different passwords feels overwhelming, don’t worry. That’s where password managers can help.
2. Use a Password Manager
Password managers store all your passwords in one secure place. You only need to remember one strong “master password,” and the manager fills in your logins for you.
Benefits:
- Reduces the need to remember multiple passwords
- Generates strong, secure passwords for you
- Works across devices
We recommend starting with a beginner-friendly manager like Bitwarden.
3. Never Share Your Passwords or Personal Info
At Our Senior Safety, we’ve seen how quickly a convincing phone call or email can trick someone into sharing private details. Scammers often pretend to be from a trusted source, your bank, Medicare, or even a family member and pressure you into giving up personal information.
Real companies will never ask for passwords or sensitive data by phone or email. If you get a request like this:
- Don’t click any links or respond
- Call the company directly using a trusted number
- Report the message as spam or phishing
Also, check out our guide to safety alerts for seniors for staying protected at home.
4. Watch Out for Phishing Emails
Phishing emails are one of the most common ways scammers trick people into handing over personal information. These emails may appear to come from your bank, a delivery company, or even someone you know.
To see real examples of phishing emails and learn how to recognize them, we recommend reviewing this guide of 50+ phishing email examples from Hook Security.
Red flags include:
- Strange or misspelled email addresses
- Urgent messages asking you to act now
- Suspicious links or attachments
If something looks off, don’t click. Delete the message or mark it as spam. Hover over links to see where they really lead.
5. Be Cautious of Suspicious Texts (Smishing)
Just like phishing emails, smishing refers to scam messages sent via text. These often pretend to be from your bank, credit card company, or Medicare and may include a link or ask for personal information.
To stay safe:
- Don’t click on links in messages from unknown numbers
- Don’t respond to requests for personal information
- Call the company using a trusted number if you’re unsure
When in doubt, it’s safer to delete the message.
6. Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Tasks
Free Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s often not secure. Scammers can spy on public networks and steal data like passwords or credit card numbers.
Instead:
- Use your mobile data plan for sensitive browsing
- Wait until you’re on a secure home connection
- Consider installing a virtual private network (VPN) if you travel often
Public Wi-Fi is fine for reading the news, but not for online banking.
7. Secure Your Home Wi-Fi
Your home Wi-Fi should be password protected and properly set up. Unfortunately, many people use the default passwords that come with their routers, which hackers can easily guess.
We recommend:
- Creating a strong custom Wi-Fi password
- Renaming your network to something generic (not your name or address)
- Asking your internet provider or a trusted family member to help if needed
A secure home network is a foundation for safe browsing.
8. Shop Only on Trusted, Secure Websites
Online shopping is incredibly convenient, but scammers also create fake websites that look real.
Before buying:
- Make sure the site begins with “https://”
- Look for a padlock icon near the web address
- Check reviews and contact information
Avoid shopping on unfamiliar sites with offers that seem too good to be true. It’s not worth the risk.
9. Use a Credit Card Instead of a Debit Card
Credit cards offer stronger fraud protection than debit cards. If something goes wrong, it’s easier to dispute a charge and prevent financial loss.
Best practices:
- Use a credit card for online purchases
- Check your statements regularly
- Set up transaction alerts if your card offers them
If something looks off, call your card issuer right away.
10. Be Wary of “Free Trial” Offers
Some companies offer a free trial, only to charge large amounts later. These charges are often hidden in the fine print.
To protect yourself:
- Always read the terms before signing up
- Avoid offers that require your credit card
- Set a reminder to cancel the trial in time
We suggest skipping any offer that seems unclear or asks for payment details upfront.
11. Watch for Romance and Online Dating Scams
We know that many older adults turn to online platforms to find connection. Unfortunately, scammers often target seniors looking for companionship.
Signs of a romance scam include:
- Someone who avoids video chats or meeting in person
- A person who quickly asks for money
- Emotional stories designed to make you feel sympathy or guilt
If you suspect something isn’t right, stop communication and talk to someone you trust.
12. Review Privacy Settings on Social Media
Social media is a great way to stay in touch, but it also comes with risks.
Tips for staying safe:
- Only accept friend requests from people you know. Scammers sometimes create fake accounts using the name and photo of someone you’re already friends with. If you receive a second friend request from someone you think you know, contact them outside of social media to confirm before accepting.
- Don’t post about vacations until you’re back home
- Adjust your privacy settings so your personal information isn’t public
Review your settings regularly, platforms like Facebook often update their features.
13. Trust Your Instincts
This may be the most important tip. If something doesn’t feel right, pause and take a closer look. Scammers rely on urgency, fear, and emotional manipulation.
Ask yourself:
- Am I being rushed?
- Would I do this if someone asked me in person?
- Does this make sense?
There’s no harm in slowing down and asking for a second opinion.
Additional Smart Safety Tips
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds a second layer of security by requiring something else (like a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.
We recommend enabling MFA on:
- Email accounts
- Banking and financial apps
- Social media profiles
Most platforms offer this option in the account security section.
Keep Devices Updated
Outdated devices are more vulnerable to attacks. Updates fix bugs and add new security protections.
Make sure to:
- Enable automatic updates
- Restart your devices regularly
- Replace very old phones or computers when possible
Install Antivirus Software
Antivirus programs help detect and block viruses, malware, and phishing scams. Some good options include:
- Avast (offers free and paid versions)
- Norton
- Bitdefender
Choose a program you can install and update easily.
Create a Device Inventory
It helps to keep track of what technology is in your home. List your phone, tablet, computer, and any smart devices.
Make sure each:
- Has a lock screen or password
- Receives regular updates
- Is connected only to secure networks
Caregivers can help manage this and ensure nothing is missed.
Add a Trusted Contact to Financial Accounts
Most banks allow you to add a trusted contact, someone they can notify if they suspect fraud or financial abuse.
This person doesn’t have access to your account, but they can help protect you.
Ask your financial institution how to set this up.
Resources for Continued Learning
- CyberSeniors.org: Free digital training for seniors
- OATS / AARP Online Safety Fact Sheets: Internet safety handouts
- Federal Trade Commission: Report scams and get support
What to Do If You Get Scammed
Scams are specifically designed to catch people off guard and they can happen to anyone. We want you to know there is absolutely no shame in being tricked by a scam. What matters is how quickly you respond.
Keep a short list of important phone numbers near your computer or phone, including:
- Your bank or credit card company
- The local police department
- Adult Protective Services in your area
If something feels wrong:
- Contact your financial institution immediately to freeze or reverse any suspicious transactions
- Change your passwords, especially for email, banking, and shopping accounts
- Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and your local police
- Talk to someone you trust, a family member, friend, or caregiver who can help guide your next steps
To find your local Adult Protective Services contact, call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit their website at eldercare.acl.gov.
At Our Senior Safety, we believe that the internet can and should be a safe space for everyone. With just a little preparation and the right tools, seniors can enjoy the web with confidence.
Trust your instincts, stay alert, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. You deserve to feel safe, online and off.