More and more older adults are online. More than half of Americans 65 and older regularly use the internet or email to shop, stay in touch with loved ones, or research a favorite subject, according to the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
Unfortunately, that also opens older adults up to scammers and cybercriminals, who will solicit information using personalized emails and realistic websites about charitable donations, online dating services, health insurance, and prescription medications.
According to the Kentucky Office of Senior Protection, online scams against older adults have skyrocketed since COVID-19. While social security and identity theft scams are the most common, online romance scams led to the greatest financial loss for people over 65.
Cybersecurity expert Jeff Chandler, CEO of Z-JAK Technologies, offers the following tips to stay safe while checking your emails and searching the web.
Passwords
- Make sure you use strong passwords with at least 10 characters and a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Use a different password for every site. A password managing service might help to keep track of them.
- Enable two-factor authentication, especially on sites where you provide financial information.
- Never click on a link provided in an email or cut and paste the link into your browser. Go directly to the organization’s website.
- Avoid opening attachments or responding to emails from unknown senders.
- Never email personal information unless you have confirmed the email recipient is legitimate. Most businesses won’t ask you for personal information via email.
Online shopping and banking
- Use familiar, secure websites. Make sure the address begins with https (s stands for security).
- Use credit cards, not debit cards, for online transactions.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi when shopping online. Connect through your phone’s data instead.
- Never provide your bank account number, social security number, or date of birth to someone online or over the phone until you’ve verified the source.
Social networking sites
- Limit the amount of personal information you post on your Facebook or Instagram account.
- Enable privacy settings and accept invitations only from people you know.
Report a scam
If you believe you’re a victim of fraud or cybercrime, it’s imperative you report it to protect yourself from further harm and to prevent others from falling victim. Begin by calling your bank and credit card companies to let them know your information has been compromised. They can put a hold on your accounts to prevent further losses, and they may be able to help you recover lost funds.
Next, contact the Office of the Attorney General in Kentucky at 888-432-9257 or the Office of Senior Protection at 502-696-5300. In Indiana, call 317-232-6201 for the Indiana Attorney General to report a scam.
By Kym Voorhees Raque
P.S. You may also find this article helpful: Can You Trust Your Contractor?
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