Staying safe online doesn't require technical expertise. It requires knowing the most common threats and having a few simple habits. This guide focuses on the most impactful practices for seniors in plain language.
The Most Important Habit: Pause Before You Act
Most scams work by creating urgency — the feeling that you must act right now or face terrible consequences. The single most protective habit is a 10-minute pause before any action involving money or personal information. In those 10 minutes, consult a trusted family member or call the official organization directly.
Phone Safety
- Caller ID can be faked — A call appearing to come from your bank, the IRS, or a family member's number may not be from them.
- No government agency calls demanding immediate payment — ever.
- If you're unsure, hang up and call back using a number from the official website or your own contacts list.
- Consider registering with the National Do Not Call Registry (donotcall.gov) to reduce spam calls.
Email Safety
- Don't click links in emails — go directly to the website instead.
- Look at the full email address of the sender, not just the display name.
- Real banks never ask for your password or full account number by email.
Protecting Your Financial Accounts
- Set up transaction alerts on all accounts — you'll know immediately if unauthorized activity occurs.
- Use a credit card for purchases, not a debit card — better fraud protection.
- Never share account information with someone who called you.
- Review your Social Security statement annually at SSA.gov.
Getting Help
If you think you've been scammed: call your bank immediately, then report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov or 1-877-382-4357. You can also call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline at 1-877-908-3360 — free for anyone.
Sources: AARP; FTC; National Council on Aging.