The internet opens doors to meaningful connections by letting us share treasured photos, keep up on current events, join virtual celebrations, and stay in touch with loved ones near and far. But with these opportunities come risks, particularly with the growing prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI).
So, it’s important to navigate this online landscape safely. By taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of being online while protecting yourself and your personal information. These five tips will help you enjoy the digital world with more confidence.
1) Use strong, unique passwords
- Create complex passwords that include a mixture of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Avoid easily guessed information, such as birthdays or names.
- Avoid reusing passwords.
- Consider a password manager to manage and protect your passwords.
- Whenever possible, add an extra layer of security by enabling multi-factor authentication, which requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or email.
2) Be cautious with personal information
- Be wary of sharing personal information online, especially on social media. (Even seemingly innocent quizzes can ask for details that compromise your privacy.)
- Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your posts and personal information.
3) Recognize phishing and AI scams
- Phishing emails and texts are fraudulent messages designed to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details, by pretending to come from a trusted source.
- Scammers often pose as family members, friends, banks, or reputable companies. Always check the sender’s email address carefully and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from messages you weren’t expecting.
- Cybercriminals are using artificial intelligence to create messages, images, videos, and voices that allow them to impersonate loved ones and others. “Stay safe by talking with your loved ones about online scams,” says Carmen de Antoni VP, Information Technology at Amica Senior Lifestyles.”
- Make a firm rule that no one should ever request money or personal information through calls, emails, or texts. Establish trusted ways to verify your contacts’ messages and prevent fraud,” says de Antoni. And beware of gift-card scams. “No legitimate company or government agency will ask you to fix an issue or pay for something with a gift card,” de Antoni adds.
4) Use trusted websites and secure networks
- When shopping or banking online, only use secure and reputable websites.
- Look for web addresses that begin with “https://” and check for a small padlock icon in the browser’s address bar.
- Avoid conducting sensitive transactions over public Wi-Fi networks, which can be easily intercepted.
- If you must access personal accounts on the go, use a virtual private network (VPN) for added protection.
5) Monitor financial statements regularly
- Regularly review your bank and credit-card statements for unauthorized transactions.
- Early detection of suspicious activity can help prevent further issues. If you notice anything unusual, contact your bank immediately.
Amica Senior Lifestyles owns and operates 34 seniors-living residences offering personalized care, life-enrichment activities, and unique culinary options. Our team helps residents navigate technology safely, empowering them to enjoy the benefits of the online world while protecting their security and well-being.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general purpose only and should not be considered professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for specific concerns regarding online safety and security.