by David Kolesnikow, Founder and CEO, Boomernology
Computer fraud against older adults in today’s digital world is a significant concern. Cybercriminals use various tactics to gain access to sensitive information, leading to identity theft, phishing scams, credit card fraud, and other harm. However, there are ways to protect ourselves from these threats. In this article, we’ll discuss five tips for preventing computer fraud.
- Keep Your Software Up to Date.
Outdated software can leave your computer or smartphone vulnerable to cyberattacks. So, make sure to update your software regularly, including your operating system, browser, and antivirus program. Set up automatic updates if possible, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting.
- Secure Your Digital Life With Strong Passwords.
Weak passwords are the easiest way for cybercriminals to access your accounts, so it’s essential to make sure your passwords are complex and secure. Use a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to create a password that is at least eight characters long. Avoid using personal information, such as your birthday or address, and don’t reuse passwords across multiple accounts.
Invest in a password manager like Google, NordPass, Keeper, or antivirus programs (most offer password storage) to store your passwords in one convenient spot and avoid keeping track of numerous passwords. Avoid using multiple pieces of paper and napkins to store your passwords. Taking these steps will help you protect your digital life from cybercriminals and keep your online accounts safe. In addition, keep your mobile devices in your possession at all times. If they fall into the wrong hands, your accounts can be compromised. - Be Wary of Suspicious Emails and Links.
Phishing emails and links are a common way for cybercriminals to access your information. Be cautious of emails or links from unknown sources, and don’t click on anything that looks suspicious. If you’re unsure, hover over the link to see the URL before clicking to see who it’s really from. If the email looks suspicious – and a telltale sign – comes from an address other than your known bank or merchant, do not open or click the links within. When in doubt, call the company before responding. - Use Two-Factor Authentication.
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a code in addition to your password. Many websites and apps offer two-factor authentication, so enable it whenever possible. - Securing Your Wi-Fi Network Is Essential.
In today’s digital world, to protect yourself from cybercriminals, you must have strong passwords for your home network and to be wary of public Wi-Fi networks. If you must use public Wi-Fi, invest in a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to keep your information secure. A VPN provides secure connections and encryption, making it much harder for criminals to access or collect your data.
Use a strong password for home Wi-Fi networks and create a separate guest password for any visitors. If public Wi-Fi is unavoidable, using a VPN before connecting is always a good idea. Do not check your bank accounts or conduct business online while on public Wi-Fi. You could also explore using your cell carrier’s personal Wi-Fi hotspot. These simple steps can help ensure that your data is safe and secure.
To summarize, computer fraud is a growing threat in today’s digital world, and protecting yourself from cybercriminals is essential. Following the five tips outlined in this article can help keep your data secure and make sure your digital life is safe. Keeping your software up to date, using strong passwords, being wary of suspicious emails and links, using two-factor authentication, and securing your Wi-Fi network are all critical for protecting yourself from cyberattacks. Taking the necessary steps to protect your information will help ensure that your data remains secure and that your accounts are safe from cybercriminals.
Questions? Concerns? Email dave@boomernology.com
David Kolesnikow’s journey to becoming the owner and founder of Boomernology started when he was a paralegal in some of the most prestigious law firms in New York City, gaining hands-on technology experience while working on major cases. Things started to change when he began helping local NYC Baby Boomers and older adults with their digital struggles. He found that they appreciated his patience and compassion. David helped people understand how to use the technology they already had more efficiently and was inspired to create Boomernology to help even more people.
See his recorded webinar for Coming of Age, Shield Yourself: Cybersecurity and Fraud Prevention on Computers and Phones here: