In an increasingly digital world, ensuring the safety of older adults online is paramount. Cybercriminals have many tricks up their sleeves and they sometimes specifically target older adult as they can be more vulnerable.
Here are some things you can discuss with older adults to help, educate t and safeguard them from cyber threats and promote online well-being:
Do not assume honesty – be suspicious: When contacted, verify the identity of the person. Doubt those who claim authority or affiliation with reputable organizations (government, police, etc.) as cyber criminals lie to deceive people. Also don’t assume that anyone advertising online (e.g.: on social media) is legitimate. Investigate thoroughly, ask many questions and seek advice from trusted friends or family if unsure.
Watch for scams: Cyber criminals use deception to take advantage of people. Common scams include romance (building online relationships to trick people into sending money), tech support (email or phone call saying that your device has a problem and they need access), and grandchild (email or call from a family member in trouble and needing money urgently). Emotional manipulation and pressure coerce targets into disclosing information or sending money.
Think before sharing information: Identity theft is a common goal of cyber criminals. Phishing emails trick people into disclosing personal information. Legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information such as passwords, social insurance numbers, addresses, bank account information or credit card numbers over the phone or email, unless they are responding directly to an inquiry you know you have made. Always be suspicious if asked for this, especially if it is information they should already have.
Create safe words: In the heat of the moment, emotions may cloud our judgement and we don’t think clearly. Set up safe words or questions with family members so if they suspect something is wrong and they are being deceived, they can use these to validate who they are engaging with.
Be cautious about misinformation and disinformation: Misinformation is incorrect information and disinformation is incorrect information being shared to mislead. Unfortunately, the internet is full of this, harming views on public health, climate change, democracy and more. Look closely at where information is coming from and seek trusted sources. It’s always a good idea to see if information is the same in multiple sources.
Regularly talk about cyber safety: Information and education is so important in helping to recognize potential dangers. Talk regularly with friends and family about online activity especially anything that may be suspicious and pass on any information on scams. The more we share the more prepared we all are.
Building older adults’ cyber awareness enables them to better recognize suspicious activity and greatly reduce the chances of them falling victim to a scam.
Additional insight to help protect you
To learn more about how you can protect yourself online we encourage you to read our other articles and articles from GetCyberSafe.ca
plus visit Bell.ca/security for more in depth information.
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