We are more connected to technology than ever before. We can get our news the moment it happens; we can learn about complex subjects from information sources around the world; we can run errands, do our banking and shopping, without leaving home; and we share ideas and keep in touch with family and friends, no matter their location. All of this is due, in part, to cyber technology. Yet for all of its advantages, increased connectivity brings increased risk of theft, fraud, and abuse.
Increasingly older Americans use the Internet to get involved in community groups, shop, plan travel, manage finances, and keep in touch with family and friends. But while the Internet bring many conveniences, it also comes with risks. Fortunately, making safer and smarter decisions online can be as simple as following these tips:
• Choose a password that means something to you and you only; use strong passwords with eight characters or more that use a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols.
• Keep your mobile devices in your possession at all times and always be aware of your surroundings.
• If you use social networking sites such as Facebook, be sure to limit the amount of personal information you post online and use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely.
• Beware of requests to update or confirm your personal information.
• Avoid opening attachments, clicking on links, or responding to email messages from unknown senders.
• Install and regularly update the security programs on your computer.
• Beware of ‘free’ gifts or prizes. If it is too good to be true, then it probably is.
It is important to add only people you know on social media sites; adding strangers could expose your personal information to scammers.
~ Courtesy Colorado Senior Lobby & U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security