Part 1: Staying Safe Online – Why Cybersecurity Matters for Seniors

by Living and Aging With Pride | Jun 12, 2025 | DIGITAL LITERACY

“I never thought I’d be using a computer every day,” says Marlene, 73, who recently learned how to video chat with her grandchildren and order groceries online. Like many older adults, Marlene has embraced technology—and she’s not alone.

More seniors than ever are going online to stay connected, shop, manage finances, and explore new hobbies. But as our digital lives expand, so does the risk of cybercrime—especially for older adults who may be less familiar with internet threats.

Why Are Seniors Targeted?

Seniors are often targeted because they tend to:

Have retirement savings or good credit
Be more trusting of strangers
Use digital tools without formal training
Be less likely to report scams out of embarrassment

Unfortunately, these factors make older adults appealing to scammers who use tactics like impersonation, urgency, and emotional manipulation.

Common Online Scams That Target Seniors

Phishing Emails or Texts
You might receive an email that looks like it’s from your bank, Medicare, or another trusted source, asking you to “verify your account” by clicking a link. The link leads to a fake website that steals your information.

Tech Support Scams
You’re browsing online when a pop-up warns you that your computer is infected with a virus. A number is provided to “fix” the issue, but it leads to a scammer who might ask for payment or remote access to your computer.

Romance Scams
Someone reaches out online and builds a relationship with you over time. Eventually, they ask for money due to an “emergency.” These scams can be emotionally and financially devastating.

Lottery or Prize Scams
You’re told you’ve won a prize or sweepstakes—but first, you need to pay a fee to claim it. If you didn’t enter a contest, it’s a scam.

How Seniors Can Stay Safe Online

Here are some practical tips to help you navigate the internet more safely:

Don’t click links in emails or texts unless you are sure of the sender.
Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
Enable two-factor authentication where available.
Keep your computer, smartphone, and apps updated.
Avoid sharing sensitive information over email or phone unless you initiate the contact.

Marlene now follows these simple practices and says, “I may not understand everything about tech, but I’ve learned how to protect myself—and I feel confident online.”

-L&AWP