While getting online is often beneficial, it also exposes older adults to the risk of identity theft and other dangers. Below, we'll explore how to help a loved one use the internet safely during early dementia.
If your loved one's device becomes infected by a virus, malware can steal their sensitive information or encrypt or erase it to prevent access. Using modern antivirus software instantly improves online safety by finding and quarantining malware before it causes security issues.
Apple and Windows operating systems often come with integrated antivirus software, and switching it on helps keep viruses at bay. These tips can make built-in antivirus software more effective:
Depending on the operating system, your friend or relative may require additional antivirus software. Many antivirus products are available, and weighing the pros and cons of each system can be confusing for people with dementia. Supporting your loved one in researching and choosing a compatible, reputable product can help them find the best protection.
Many people with dementia find social media helpful for staying connected with family and friends. However, criminals sometimes use the information posted on social media profiles to steal people's identities or craft more convincing phishing scams. Unscrupulous individuals may also use fake social media profiles to commit online fraud, often targeting users who appear particularly vulnerable.
Adjusting your loved one's privacy settings controls who can see and comment on their online posts. For example, you can change the privacy settings on a Facebook profile to prevent people who aren't their friends from viewing their information. RAINN offers a handy social media privacy and safety guide to help you understand how to restrict access to a social media account, block distressing or offensive content and report unwanted contact.
Educating your loved one about safe social media use can also reduce the risk of online security issues. Share the following tips to keep their profiles and personal data secure:
Regularly checking social media for security issues can help everyone stay safer online. Offer to help your friend or family member audit their social media accounts for unknown friends, sensitive information and other security issues every month to nip potential problems in the bud.
Browsing unsecured websites increases your exposure to spam popups, malware and identity theft. Some websites impersonate reputable organizations, and spotting these imposter sites can be more challenging for people living with dementia.
Helping your loved one understand how to browse the internet safely protects them against potentially dangerous sites. Encourage them to look for websites with https:// at the beginning of the URL and avoid web addresses starting with http:// to filter out unsecured websites. You could also help them screen websites on Google's Safe Browsing Site Checker to reduce the risk of encountering unsafe or compromised web pages.
Regularly deleting cached files and cookies on your friend or family member's device logs them out of online accounts and stops websites and hackers from accessing their private information. You can also install browser add-ons to block dangerous and nonsecure web pages.
Email is a great way to stay in touch with friends and family, but cybercriminals often use it to carry out online scams. They may send unsolicited correspondence or encourage receivers to visit dangerous websites or download infected files. Some fraudsters also operate phishing scams, which involve posing as a reputable organization to steal private data.
Scam emails often:
Unfortunately, identifying scam emails can be challenging for even the most tech-savvy internet users. If your loved one is worried about email scams or struggles to recognize potentially fraudulent messages, offer to help them answer emails as a group activity when you visit them at Bethesda Gardens Loveland.
Remember that genuine senders never ask for sensitive information, such as bank details or online passwords, via email. Never scan a QR code, download an attachment or click on a link in an email unless you're sure the sender is genuine. If you're uncertain, contact the organization or individual by phone. Scammers often include fake contact information in correspondence, so it's worth independently verifying the correct phone number from an organization's official website.
