The number of seniors who use the internet continues to grow, with the Pew Research Center reporting that 75% of those age 65 and older are online. More than half of seniors are shopping online, which also makes them at risk of being the victims of cyber crime.

While online shopping can be convenient, fast, and safe — especially in the COVID-19 pandemic when you may want to avoid crowds — it can also have dangers. Here are essential tips for seniors who shop online to avoid becoming a victim of a cyber crime.

—Know where you are. Check the website address, also known as the URL, in your web’s browser. If you’re visiting, for example, the Walmart website, it should read: https://www.walmart.com and if it doesn’t say exactly that then you’re on a different site. Close your browser if you don’t think you’re on the correct website.

—Shop with a credit card. A credit card is your best option to paying for items online. In the event that someone steals your information, you won’t be held responsible for the charges you didn’t make. A credit card is better than a debit card because a thief may be able to drain your account tied to your debit card before you’ve detected something amiss. You can also use PayPal or other online payment apps.

—Ignore spam emails. Fraudsters may try and trick you by sending you an email claiming to be from Amazon, FedEx, or other companies. If you don’t recognize who is sending you the email, do not open it or click on any links. You could expose yourself to fraud and have personal information stolen by thieves.

—Guard your passwords. Make sure you have different passwords and don’t use similar or easy passwords such as “12345678.” Change up your passwords and use two-factor authentication such as getting a text with a code to enter online. Use a notebook to track your passwords and be sure to use symbols and numbers. While it may feel like a hassle, your financial security is of paramount importance.

—Know the return policy on your online purchase. The safer purchases are ones in which you buy items online from companies that have good return policies. For example, having a 30-day window to return your item if it’s not something you want to keep. 

A CARING-FIRST ENVIRONMENT

Senior living communities like Regency at Augusta Assisted Living & Memory Care are precisely that—a community. Residents become friends and even family, and a caring team is there to help them maintain their quality of life. 

At Regency at Augusta, we offer both Assisted Living and Memory Care and we care with Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Residents first and Teamwork. We like to call it Caring with H.E.A.R.T.™!

If you believe a senior living community would benefit your loved one, get in touch with us. Schedule a visit or download a brochure today!