Keeping safe online
I’m furious that someone would take advantage of my mum like that!’ fumed my friend
Stacey. She’d just spent the morning on the phone to her mum Robyn’s bank after Robyn, 79, fell victim to an online scam.
Robyn is a confident and intelligent woman but, like many of us, she’s not very computer savvy.
When she received a legitimate looking email from Microsoft asking her to download an attached program update, she obliged.
It turned out to be something nasty, resulting in her being unable to use her computer and, according to the local computer repair man, left her vulnerable to fraud and identity theft.
Stacey said that her mum had been reluctant to get a computer and only relented because online access is necessary for so many things these days.
So how can we help our parents and grandparents stay connected, but keep them safe at the same time? AUTO UPDATES
Scammers evolve their techniques all the time so it’s important that processing systems, anti-virus and malware programs are regularly updated to maintain a strong line of defence.
Setting up phones, computers and other devices to automatically install updates is the best way to stay protected.
STAY IN CONTROL
A common way scammers access your information is by taking remote control of your computer. You can disable this Remote Desktop function in the ‘settings’ menu on Windows computers. Then if your loved one receives a call from a scammer claiming they urgently need access to their computer to fix a problem, it’ll be secure. BASIC BROWSING Chromebooks allow basic functions like accessing social media, emails and browsing the web, but don’t allow programs to be downloaded, greatly reducing the risk of viruses, spyware and malware. This makes them a great option for anyone who just wants to send and receive emails and watch a few cute cat videos. IF IN DOUBT…
Whether it’s emails, pop-up screens, text messages or phone calls, it’s hard to know what’s legitimate and what’s a scam.
Making sense of it all can be confusing and a lot of scammers use scare tactics, instilling a sense of urgency that results in some seniors being robbed of their life savings.
The best advice to give your loved one is to end the communication – whether that be hanging up the phone or closing the computer – and making a call to their bank or other relevant organisation to verify.