Cybersecurity Advice for Retirees
Posted on | Categories: Cyber Security, Retirement
It’s been proven that senior citizens are a much easier target for hackers because older folks didn’t grow up in the current world of technology. Whether you’re a senior looking for some advice or you have an older loved one who you want to look out for, these cybersecurity tips are important for everyone to remember.
Don't Overshare Information
Social media is a great way to stay connected to family and friends, especially if they don’t live nearby. Keep in mind that what you post online is public for the world to see, so just call or text someone directly if you’re sharing personal information.
Be Careful Online Shopping
If you’re online shopping and a retailer asks for unnecessary information, be cautious. Keep in mind that no online store will ever ask for your social security number. Also, it’s not a great idea to buy from an unfamiliar retailer, so do your research beforehand and check reviews to make sure the seller is legit.
Use Strong Passwords
As nice as it is to have an easy-to-remember password, it also makes it much easier for someone to hack your account. If remembering multiple strong passwords gets difficult, you can use a password manager. Make sure your password:
- • Doesn’t include personal information
- • Includes numbers, special characters, upper and lowercase letters
- • Isn’t too short
Beware of Public Wi-Fi
Using free public Wi-Fi is convenient but can be a bit dangerous depending on what you’re doing. The public airwaves allow hackers to potentially intercept the data you’re sending online. This can include intercepting data such as your credit card info, name and address, so play it safe and use your home Wi-Fi network for things like that.
Be Cautious with Emails
Spam emails are usually easy to point out, but phishing is where it gets tricky. If you receive an email from an unknown sender, don’t click on any links or reply without verifying who it is and whether they’re a trusted sender.
Ask for Help
If you have a family member or friend who is tech-savvy, don’t be afraid to reach out to them for help if you’re unsure of something. When it comes to technology and cybersecurity, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
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