topic Re: Locked-down cell phone for seniors in Computer Questions & Tips

Locked-down cell phone for seniors

jmf49 — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 21:09:39 GMT

I have a friend who needs regular help keeping her smart phone safe and free from scams, ads, etc. My son has a business laptop that is safe and secure because his company keeps it locked down. So I thought that AARP could offer cell phone plans that allow the phone to be locked down to do only what the subscriber (or subscriber's family) allows. No apps could be installed accidentally, no links for ads would work, etc. A phone that could be made safe even for seniors suffering from dementia. No one could call with an AI generated fake voice and convince the subscriber to transfer their life savings to India- at least not by using the smartphone. It would be a boon for many seniors and even could be a blessing for families with children. I think that it could be a real business opportunity. What do you think?

Re: Locked-down cell phone for seniors

SereneSeagull — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 23:26:02 GMT

Nothing can be 100% safe, but you could suggest it to AARP on their Contact Us page, maybe?

Re: Locked-down cell phone for seniors

cat0w — Sun, 21 Dec 2025 22:23:13 GMT

What type of phone does the person have? Have they read the user manual or information they can get about the phone.

I have a McAfee family subscription and have that on my phone to help with protection.

It's up to each person and their devices to set them up for safe use.

Re: Locked-down cell phone for seniors

SereneSeagull — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:26:15 GMT

Yes, I think it was a hope type of thing that AARP would want to create an invention that could help seniors with locking down their phones. An impenetrable device. On a different note, I’m hoping for a working rewards search engine.

Re: Locked-down cell phone for seniors

cat0w — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 12:56:14 GMT

@SereneSeagull

Check your Settings for your Cell Phone and look at Security and Privacy.

I have a Samsung Galaxy S24+. It is an Android phone with One UI version 8.0, Android version is 16.

What rewards are you looking for?

Re: Locked-down cell phone for seniors

SereneSeagull — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 13:07:27 GMT

lol. It’s not me. @cat0w

I was answering the original poster’s question looking for AARP to invent this.