Here at the White Hatter, we are best known for providing youth, parents, and educators with training on the topics of digital literacy and internet safety. However, when the opportunity presents itself, we also love to educate our seniors as well.
According to Stats Canada, the largest increase of new internet users in our country has been those aged 65 or older (1). There is no doubt that the online landscape offers seniors an array of advantages such as facilitating connectivity, knowledge acquisition, and convenient access to various services (2). However, in today’s onlife world, seniors are facing a growing threat from scams and digital theft. These malicious activities not only target their finances but also undermine their sense of security and trust when it comes to online interactions. Seniors, who are often less familiar with the intricacies of being online, find themselves particularly vulnerable to these schemes. Therefore, it’s crucial for them to arm themselves with the knowledge and tools needed to help defend against these threats effectively.
Senior online scams and digital theft encompass a variety of tactics, all designed to exploit vulnerabilities and deceive unsuspecting individuals. From tech support scams to romance scams, grandparent scams, government impersonation scams, and charitable organization scams, the tactics employed by malicious actors are diverse and constantly evolving (3)(4). These scams often prey on senior’s trust, compassion, and lack of digital literacy, making them more susceptible to online manipulation.
The rise of targeted advertising because of algorithmic “filter bubbles” adds another layer of complexity to the issue. Malicious actors can create profiles or digital dossiers based on an individual’s online activities, tailoring scams to their specific interests, needs, or fears – something called “social engineering”. For instance, a senior researching health issues might encounter ads promoting fake treatments or miracle cures, leading them to fall victim to fraudulent online schemes.
To combat these threats effectively, we need to help seniors take proactive measures to enhance their online privacy and security. Digital literacy and internet safety education play a pivotal role in empowering seniors to recognize and avoid potential scams. Understanding common tactics used by scammers and being wary of suspicious online activities can go a long way in mitigating risks. Yes, we here at the White Hatter provide such awareness training to senior groups (5).
However, knowledge alone may not suffice. Seniors must also utilize tools that can bolster their online defenses. Installing ad blockers and anti-tracking extensions on web browsers, such as “Privacy Badger”(6) or “Ghostery Tracker and Ad Blocker”(7) can significantly reduce exposure to malicious ads and trackers, thereby enhancing online safety. Many browsers, such as Apple’s Safari (8) and Google Chrome (9)(10) also provide built-in protection, by blocking or removing intrusive ads and trackers, these tools not only make browsing faster but also create a safer and more private online experience.
While tools and tips are essential components of senior cybersecurity, they are only effective when paired with awareness and support. Many seniors may struggle to navigate the complexities of digital security on their own, highlighting the need for accessible resources and assistance. Community organizations, senior centers, and family members can play a crucial role in providing support and guidance to seniors in their journey toward online safety. Some of the best training we have seen is when digitally literate grandkids work with their grandparent(s) to help them stay safer online. Another great resource that we recommend is “Cyber Seniors” – they offer “free” tech help and training to seniors both online and offline (11).
Fostering a culture of open communication and collaboration is essential in combating senior scams and digital theft. By sharing experiences, insights, and best practices, seniors can collectively strengthen their defenses against malicious actors.
Senior scams and digital theft pose significant threats to millions of seniors every year, particularly those who are less familiar with the online landscape. To protect themselves from these dangers, we must help seniors by providing knowledge, tools, and support systems. By enhancing digital literacy, utilizing privacy-enhancing tools, and fostering a community-driven approach to cybersecurity, seniors can safeguard their online presence and enjoy a safer onlife experience.
The surge in internet usage among seniors brings both opportunities and challenges. While the online world offers numerous benefits, such as connectivity and access to services, seniors are increasingly vulnerable to online scams and digital theft. These malicious activities exploit senior’s trust and lack of digital literacy, making them easy targets for manipulation. Combatting these threats requires a multifaceted and holistic approach, including education, tools, and community support. By empowering seniors with knowledge, enhancing their digital literacy, and fostering a collaborative environment, we can collectively strengthen their defenses against online threats.
We must continue to prioritize the protection of seniors in today’s onlife world, ensuring they can navigate the online landscape safely and more confidently. Knowledge and the understanding and application of that knowledge is power!
Digital Food For Thought
The White Hatter
References:
1/ https://www.statcan.gc.ca/o1/en/plus/4288-canadian-seniors-more-connected-ever
3/ https://www.getcybersafe.gc.ca/en/common-scams-older-adults-watch-out-for
4/ https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/fraud-scams.html
5/ https://thewhitehatter.ca/programs/digital-literacy-online-safety-older-adults/
7/ https://www.ghostery.com/ghostery-ad-blocker
8/ https://support.apple.com/en-ca/102524
9/ https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/95472?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop
10/ https://support.google.com/chrome/answer/95472?hl=en&co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid
