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Cyber Security Awareness Month

It’s important to be mindful when online, since some scammers tend to target seniors. Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a helpful reminder to practice safe online habits for ourselves and our loved ones. Tips for safer online browsing:

• Think before you click – Avoid opening links or attachments from unknown emails or texts.
• Use strong passwords – Longer is stronger. Try using a phrase that’s easy to remember but hard for others to guess, and if allowed, mix in capital letters, numbers, and symbols for extra security.
• Don’t share personal info – Banks, Medicare, and Social Security won’t call, text, or email asking for private details.
• Pause before responding – Scammers sometimes pose as family, delivery companies, or even celebrities. If you’re asked to send money or gift cards, take a moment and check with a trusted loved one first.
• Invest in reputable antivirus software – If you use a laptop or desktop computer, good antivirus protection can help block malware and phishing attempts.
• Check in often – Families talking regularly about online and phone safety can prevent bigger problems.
• Trust your gut – If something feels “off ” or too good to be true, it probably is.

Cybersecurity isn’t about being fearful, it’s about being mindful. With a little caution and a lot of communication, seniors and families can enjoy the online world safely and confidently.