Online habits without safeguards can place seniors at risk.
The internet can be a wild place.
While it offers convenience and access to information and services, nefarious individuals can also use it to target the vulnerable.
Adults of all ages use the internet for shopping, banking, communication, healthcare, and other services.
Unfortunately, scammers target financial accounts and personal information online.
Seniors are often seen as easier victims for criminals.
Those with older loved ones should encourage cybersecurity by outlining and adopting safe online habits rather than completely removing access to technology.
Passwords can be a cybersecurity strength or a weakness.
A good way to better secure your online accounts and information is to use unique, strong passwords.
Using the same password for multiple accounts increases the risk of exposure if one account is breached.
A password manager lets seniors track multiple passwords without memorizing them.
Important online accounts, such as banking, email, and financial accounts, require greater security diligence.
Activate two-factor authentication on accounts to add an extra layer of protection.
Software updates for applications and operating systems often include new security features to address previous vulnerabilities.
Seniors may find that setting up automatic updates reduces the risk of being left vulnerable because they do not install them.
All internet-connected devices, like tablets, browsers, computers, phones, and smart televisions, should run current software.
Scammers have created a wide range of online frauds.
They use common tactics to hijack the amygdala and take your logical brain offline.
Hallmarks of a scam include creating confusion, fear, or urgency to push people to act before verifying a request.
Messages pretending to be from family, emails claiming imminent account closure, and phone calls demanding immediate payments are all signs of a scam.
Encourage seniors to pause and breathe when a message communicates a strong sense of fear and urgency.
Instead of responding directly or clicking a link, those being targeted should use a known, legitimate website or phone number to contact the organization.
Other common red flags for criminal activity include requests for Social Security numbers, passwords, gift cards, wire transfers, financial information, or cryptocurrency.
Even legitimate-looking websites or messages requesting personal information cannot be trusted.
Criminals can craft websites, text messages, and emails that resemble those of legitimate government agencies or businesses.
Yikes!
It is wise for all people not to provide sensitive information unless the source and reason for the request have been independently verified.
Another way to protect yourself online is to avoid oversharing on social media.
Unsavory individuals can use addresses, exact birthdays, family details, travel plans, and other information to build more successful scams.
By having open conversations about online safety with aging loved ones before issues occur, adult children can help reduce the likelihood of loved ones being victimized.
What should be included in these conversations?
The conversations should cover account recovery, passwords, software updates, suspicious messages, and action steps to take if an account may have been compromised.
Securing online accounts and information also benefits estate planning.
Having an inventory of accounts and instructions will be crucial for an agent to properly administer and account for them after death or incapacity.
Seniors do not need to abstain from technology, but they can take steps to make their digital accounts and information more secure.
People do not need to be cybersecurity experts to protect their digital information and online accounts.
Simple actions like setting up two-factor authentication, using unique passwords, updating software, and verifying unexpected messages or requests for information can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
By collaborating with their older loved ones, younger family members can support their safety and independence when using technology.
Two-factor authentication and unique passwords promote stronger security for digital account access.
If you receive an unexpected message requesting personal information or money, verify the request using an independent, trusted email address or phone number.
Keeping applications, operating systems, and security tools updated reduces the risk of known vulnerabilities.
By monitoring important online accounts, you can respond quickly to fraud, incapacity, or other issues.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice on any specific issue or problem. Nothing herein creates an attorney-client relationship between Harvest Law KC and the reader.
Reference: National Council on Aging (Dec 23, 2025) "Personal Cybersecurity Tips for Seniors: Protect Your Online Life"
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