Top 5 Online Safety Rules for Seasoned Seniors

Because clicking the wrong thing…

Lillian thought she was just updating her Netflix account.

The email looked official. The logo was there. The colors matched. She clicked the link, typed in her password, and hit submit.

Two hours later, her streaming was frozen, her inbox was flooded, and her grandson was on the phone asking why she had emailed him about a “Bitcoin opportunity.”

We’ve all been there. And it’s not about being careless. Today’s scams and tech traps are designed to fool even the savviest internet users.

The good news? You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to stay safe. Just a few smart habits can protect your privacy, your money, and your peace of mind.

So before you check your bank balance, log into your email, or hop on Wi-Fi at your favorite café, take a look at these five essential online safety rules. They’re simple, powerful, and made with you in mind.

1. Treat Public Wi-Fi Like a Public Toilet

🚽 Yes, you can use it. No, you shouldn’t get too comfortable.

Think of public Wi-Fi like a glass house, you can see everything, and so can everyone else.

That’s why digital safety organizations like Norton and McAfee suggest avoiding personal logins or transactions when connected to open networks. Hackers can easily intercept your data or create fake networks that mimic trusted ones.

Safer habit: Stick to secured Wi-Fi at home, use a VPN or use your mobile hotspot when on the go. And always look for “https” in your browser, it means your connection is encrypted.

🧠 Cited: Norton LifeLock “Wi-Fi Safety for Seniors,” McAfee’s “Senior Cyber Tips 2024”

2. Click With Caution: If It Smells Fishy, It’s Probably Phishy

Phishing scams are one of the most common ways people over 50 are targeted online. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that seniors lose more money to scams than any other age group, often through realistic-looking emails or texts from what appear to be trusted sources.

The best defense? Slow down before clicking. Hover over links to preview them. If something feels off, delete the message or verify with the source directly, especially if the message uses urgent language like “Your account will be suspended.”

Warning signs to watch for:

• Misspelled words
• Unusual email addresses
• Requests for personal information
• Different fonts
• Logos that almost look like the real thing — but looking closer look a bit off.

💡 Cited: FTC.gov “Protecting Older Consumers,” AARP Fraud Watch Network

3. Make Your Passwords Boring… and Brilliant

Think of your password like your underwear.
Don’t share it. Don’t reuse it. And change it now and then.

The AARP Cybersecurity Resource Center recommends creating passwords with a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Better yet, use a password manager like LastPass or Bitwarden. These secure apps remember everything for you and help keep each login unique.

Need a formula? Start with a phrase like “My grandson plays piano” and turn it into something like “MgP@2025!”

🔐 Cited: AARP.org “Passwords and Online Security for Older Adults”

4. Log Out Like a Boss

Closing a browser tab isn’t the same as logging out. The Senior Planet Digital Life series teaches that signing out of email, social media, and banking apps helps prevent others from accessing your data — especially if you’re on a public or shared device.

Also, clear your browser history from time to time. It protects your privacy and can even help your computer run a little faster.

🖥️ Cited: SeniorPlanet.org “Staying Safe Online” course materials

5. Install Updates Like You Take Vitamins

Updates may seem annoying, but they’re one of your best defenses. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) says outdated software creates easy entry points for hackers.

Set your devices to update automatically, and don’t ignore the reminders. Software updates often include fixes for bugs, security holes, and performance issues.

Pro tip: Restart your device once a week to keep things running smoothly.

💊 Cited: CISA.gov “Cyber Hygiene Tips”

Final Word

You don’t need to fear the internet. You just need a few good habits, a little curiosity, and the same common sense you’ve been using for years.

Remember: You’ve survived rotary phones, dial-up internet, and VCR programming. This? You’ve got this.

Stay smart. Stay safe. And keep clicking with confidence.

If you want to learn more tips and tricks – contact us: Ndungu Consulting.