According to the Federal Trade Commission, people over the age of 60 are more likely to report losing money to online scams than any other age group. In 2020, the FTC reported that people over 60 lost an average of $1,200 per person to online scams.
This highlights the importance of taking steps to stay safe online, especially for older adults who may be more vulnerable to these types of scams.
Understanding Online Scams
Online scams can take many forms, including phishing emails, fake websites, and social media scams. Phishing emails are designed to look like they are from a legitimate company, but are actually attempts to steal personal information such as passwords or credit card numbers.
Fake websites can be set up to look like real websites, but are actually designed to steal information or install malware on a person's computer. Social media scams can include fake profiles or messages that are designed to steal information or money.
Using Strong Passwords
Using strong passwords is one of the most effective ways to stay safe online. A strong password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
It's also important to use a different password for each online account and to avoid using easily guessable information such as a person's name or birthdate. The National Institute of Standards and Technology recommends using a password manager to generate and store unique, complex passwords.
Keeping Software Up to Date
Keeping software up to date is also important for staying safe online. This includes operating systems, browsers, and other software that is used to access the internet. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers.
The United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team recommends setting software to update automatically to ensure that the latest security patches are installed.
Being Cautious with Emails and Links
Being cautious with emails and links is also important for staying safe online. This includes avoiding suspicious emails and links, and being careful when clicking on links or downloading attachments.
The Federal Trade Commission recommends hovering over links to see the URL before clicking on them, and being wary of emails that ask for personal or financial information.
Using Two-Factor Authentication
Using two-factor authentication is another way to stay safe online. This requires a person to provide a second form of verification, such as a code sent to their phone, in addition to their password.
This makes it much more difficult for hackers to gain access to an online account. The National Cyber Security Alliance recommends using two-factor authentication whenever possible.
Monitoring Accounts and Credit Reports
Monitoring accounts and credit reports is also important for staying safe online. This includes regularly checking bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity, and monitoring credit reports for signs of identity theft.
The Federal Trade Commission recommends checking credit reports at least once a year, and reporting any suspicious activity to the credit reporting agency.
Seeking Help if Scammed
If a person does fall victim to an online scam, it's important to seek help right away. This includes reporting the scam to the Federal Trade Commission and contacting the person's bank or credit card company to report any suspicious activity.
The National Consumers League recommends keeping a record of all correspondence and reporting any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
Online Safety Tips
| Tip | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Use strong passwords | Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters | High |
| Keep software up to date | Set software to update automatically | High |
| Be cautious with emails and links | Avoid suspicious emails and links | High |
| Use two-factor authentication | Require a second form of verification | Medium |
| Monitor accounts and credit reports | Check for suspicious activity regularly | Medium |
Staying safe online requires a combination of common sense, awareness of potential scams, and proactive steps to protect personal and financial information. By following the tips outlined in this article, older adults can reduce their risk of falling victim to online scams and protect their online identity.
Sources
- Federal Trade Commission, 'Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book,' (2020)
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, 'Special Publication 800-63-3: Digital Identity Guidelines,' (2017)
- United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team, 'US-CERT Alert TA14-150A: Targeted Destructive Malware,' (2014)
- National Cyber Security Alliance, 'Two-Factor Authentication,' (2020)
- National Consumers League, 'Online Scams and Identity Theft,' (2020)
- Social Security Administration, 'Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number,' (2020)