As technology progresses, seniors are increasingly vulnerable to scams, according to experts. It’s crucial for older individuals to strike a balance between leveraging the benefits of the internet and safeguarding themselves, states Tom Kamber, the founder and executive director of national nonprofit Older Adults Technology Services (OATS), affiliated with AARP. Kamber, based in New York, emphasizes the necessity for everyone to use the internet for various daily activities. The nonprofit OATS aims to educate “tens of thousands of individuals” on digital safety through a new collaboration with Verizon.
The primary digital threat faced by seniors is scams and fraud, Kamber highlights. An AARP survey revealed that the main obstacle to technology use among seniors is the fear of privacy breaches. Kamber warns that older individuals are often targeted by scammers, making them more susceptible to financial exploitation. Many seniors have fallen victim to online or phone scams involving AI deep fakes, which can be difficult to identify without adequate knowledge. Seniors are advised to enhance their password protection skills and learn to recognize deep fakes to mitigate these risks.
Licensed social worker and gerontologist Macie Smith advises seniors to be cautious with calls from unknown or spam numbers and to avoid clicking on unfamiliar links in emails, texts, or social media messages. Smith warns about the rise of AI voice cloning in scam calls and the duplication of social media profiles by scammers. Kamber also points out the prevalence of AI-generated content, such as fake photos and videos, on social media platforms, which can mislead seniors.
To combat these challenges, Kamber suggests seniors develop their social awareness and apply their street smarts to online interactions. It is important for seniors to remain vigilant, especially when encountering deals or information online that seem too good to be true. By staying informed and cautious, older adults can protect themselves from falling victim to digital scams.
According to the “Health Newsletter,” having common sense can be a valuable asset for older individuals as they adapt to the ever-evolving digital landscape. In order to safeguard themselves from potential online threats, it is recommended that older adults maintain open communication with family and friends who can provide tech-related guidance.
“We will be discussing the authenticity of online information for many years to come,” said one expert. “It is crucial that we continually nurture our support networks to enhance our resilience.”
Experts suggest that seniors share their login details with a trusted individual who is knowledgeable about technology. By doing so, seniors can receive assistance in verifying the credibility of information and its sources.
It is essential for seniors to actively engage in the digital world and stay informed about good digital practices. Many seniors rely on managing important matters, such as Social Security benefits, online.
Utilizing social media can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation among seniors. Implementing safeguards is crucial to protect seniors from scams while ensuring their social connectivity.
OATS offers free technology programs for individuals over 50 and has partnered with Verizon to promote digital wellness. Through free lessons in Verizon stores and senior centers, individuals can learn to use technology more safely and effectively.
Seniors are encouraged to understand how digital devices work rather than avoiding them. Digital literacy training is emphasized by experts to help seniors navigate potential online threats.
Donna Epps, from Verizon, stressed the importance of digital literacy training for seniors to protect against new scams like AI voice cloning. Staying informed about digital hygiene and strategies is key for all individuals in the digital age.
