H​ow to Help​ Older Adults Safely Navigate the Web

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​Although seniors are more tech savvy than ever, the FTC and FBI statistics indicate older adults are now five times more likely to be victims of cybercrimes​ than just four years ago, and the Department of Justice estimates scammers steal at least $3 billion from unsuspecting seniors every year.

Here are some tips on how to protect your loved one:

Notable Changes in Computer Usage Could Foreshadow​ More Serious Issues​​

• Cognitive impairment often is recognizable earlier in seniors who use technology; forgetting passwords or frequently getting locked out of accounts can signal a decline in judgment.
• Encourage older adults to immediately tell you of mistreatment by, or suspicious behavior of, persons ​​​who enter their homes to provide care or services.
• Listen carefully when conversing with loved ones;look for signs that something is not right.
• Don't be afraid to be a little "nosey" as seniors often have misgivings about discussing anomalies in their health or environment.​
• Don't hesitate to seek help if you suspect your loved one is in danger or needs additional aid.

C​lues your loved one may be involved with a bad actor (Detect):

• The sudden apperance of a new "best friend”.

• Writing bad checks.

• Signs of neglect when there is a paid caretaker.​

Advise seniors​ not to share ​sensitive data such as (Defer):

• Social Security Number

• Medicare ID

• Credit-Card Information 

• Bank Account Details​

Talk to the older adults in your life openly, honestly and frequently (Defend):

• Ask questions about their interactions online.

• Share information about scams and fraud.

• ​Ensure they are using proper security measures ​​while on the Internet.​​