10 Best Practices to Keep Yourself Safe Online

---

As our lives become more connected, protecting ourselves online is more important than ever. For middle-aged to older adults, staying safe on the internet can feel overwhelming, but following some simple best practices can go a long way in practicing internet safety and safeguarding your personal information.

Your password is your first line of defense. Create strong passwords that are at least 12 characters long, using a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using personal information like your name or birthday.

Tip: Use a password manager to help create and store complex passwords.

Multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, like a code sent to your phone. Even if someone guesses your password (everyone should use complex passwords), they can’t access your accounts without this second step.

Think before you click! Scammers often send emails or messages with links that look legitimate but lead to malicious websites.

Rule of thumb: Internet Safety begins with being concious of what you are doing. Hover over links to see where they go, and never open attachments from unknown senders.

Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Keep your devices, apps, and antivirus software updated to ensure you’re protected against the latest threats. Make sure your device is protected by a secure network at all times.

Using public Wi-Fi at coffee shops or airports is convenient, but it can expose your data to hackers. As stated above, always make sure you are using a secure network.

Solution: Use your phone’s hotspot or a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for secure browsing on public networks.

Keep an eye on your bank accounts, credit cards, and other online profiles. Set up alerts for unusual activity, so you can quickly respond to unauthorized transactions.  As stated above, use complex passwords for sites that contain any type of sensitive information.

Scammers may pose as trusted organizations or even friends to gain your trust. Be wary of anyone asking for personal information, money, or immediate action over email, phone, or text.

Remember: Legitimate organizations will not pressure you or ask for sensitive information via email.  Remember institutions (i.e. Watertown Savings Bank) will never ask you for your password.

Social media platforms often share more about you than you realize. Adjust your privacy settings to control who can see your posts, and avoid sharing sensitive details like your address, vacation plans, or phone number.

Ransomware attacks and accidental deletions can result in losing important files. Regularly back up your data to an external hard drive or a secure cloud service to ensure you can recover your files if needed.

The internet and online threats are constantly evolving. Practicing internet safety means taking the time to learn about new scams and security practices. Knowledge is one of the best tools to protect yourself.

Suggestion: Follow trusted websites or organizations, like AARP’s Fraud Watch Network, to stay updated on the latest online safety tips.

While the internet may seem like a daunting place, these practical steps can help you navigate it safely. Remember, being cautious and proactive is the key to protecting yourself and your loved ones online.

If you have questions or need help setting up these protections, don’t hesitate to ask a tech-savvy friend or professional. A little effort today can save you a lot of trouble tomorrow!