Steps Seniors Should Know To Protect Their Data

Seniors are increasingly targeted for cyberattacks by cybercriminals seeking access to confidential financial, tax and medical data which can be used to commit acts of identity theft. In fact, according to data collected by the FBI, one in four cybercrime complaints in 2020 were from victims over age 60 because they are vulnerable.
Seniors are increasingly targeted for cyberattacks by cybercriminals seeking access to confidential financial, tax and medical data which can be used to commit acts of identity theft. In fact, according to data collected by the FBI, one in four cybercrime complaints in 2020 were from victims over age 60 because they are vulnerable.

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There’s never been a better time to assist seniors to protect their online data.

Although cybersecurity education can seem challenging for seniors, most cyberattacks can be tackled with a few simple steps. However, cybersecurity is about risk reduction as it is hard to possess perfect security but you can work to make yourself a more difficult target.

Here are steps seniors should know to protect their data.

Choose Strong Passwords

Secure The Passwords

Avoid Phishing

Install A Good Antivirus Program

Always Log Out.

There’s never been a better time to assist seniors to protect their online data.

Although cybersecurity education can seem challenging for seniors, most cyberattacks can be tackled with a few simple steps. However, cybersecurity is about risk reduction as it is hard to possess perfect security but you can work to make yourself a more difficult target.

Here are steps seniors should know to protect their data.

Choose Strong Passwords

Secure The Passwords

Avoid Phishing

Install A Good Antivirus Program

Always Log Out.

Choose Strong Passwords

It is important to lock their devices and accounts like they would lock the front door of their houses. Like different locks, some passwords are more secure than others. Strong passwords ensure that devices cannot be accessed In case they are lost or stolen.

Password managers are recommended, depending on how many passwords they must manage. Password managers simplify any online logins.

Secure The Passwords

In addition, seniors should not leave their passwords written down around their computers. As many seniors want to put down their passwords to help their memory, it can also help a cyber predator to log in. They should write down passwords in a secure location.

Avoid Phishing

Seniors are vulnerable to scam emails and social media accounts. Do not click on links or download any file if there is doubt about its legitimacy. Instead, go directly to the webpage and contact customer support directly.

Another way to spot phishing is with typographical errors. If Facebook Is spelled “facebok.com” in the email, it is a good sign it is a phishing attempt. In addition, if an email has a sense of urgency like asking for money or reporting an issue with a bank account or taxes, ensure thorough investigation before responding. The IRS will never email, text or send a social media message and they will never call for immediate payment.

Install A Good Antivirus Program

Malware or any program that could destroy your computer, is one of the most common threats for seniors. Malware can often infect one’s device without knowing. Installation of a good antivirus program helps to block any kind of malware in real time. Some antivirus programs may also come with password managers, anti-phishing tools, VPNs and other cybersecurity tools.

Always Log Out

Logging out of accounts protects seniors’ security. It is unsafe to stay logged into accounts on public computers, like those in a public library. Even at home, always log out each time. This is where having a password manager will make it easier for seniors to log in each time.

Final Thoughts

Going online makes us keep informed, connect with friends and family and for learning. Just as you fasten your seat belt before driving, take these safety steps before surfing the internet to be safe and secure. Personal data is like money. Value it. Protect it.

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