The Equifax breach demonstrated exactly why computer security is so essential. Keeping virus/malware/spyware/ransomware scanning tools updated with the latest definitions is a start.
When your mom’s online, she needs to protect herself. She needs to use hard to guess passwords, use a firewall, avoid phishing attempts, and watch who she befriends. Here are the things you should take a closer look at the next time you’re at her house.
Elderly Care in Upland CA: Senior Online Safety
How Computer Literate is She?
Some seniors do okay when they’re online. Home computers started gaining ground in the 1980s, and by the end of the 1990s, many homes had them. How much does your mom know? Does she know how to update software? Does she understand how to avoid clicking on a link in an email?
The answers to these questions matter. They shape a lot of what you need to do in terms of keeping your mom safe when she’s using her computer. Use her skills as a starting point on what you need to focus on.
Check Her Passwords
Start with her passwords. It used to be that taking a common phrase and switching it to be a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols was the best idea. It involved taking something like a favorite movie, such as My Fair Lady, and turning it into a password. You’d do something my MyF41rL4dy.
Experts no longer recommend that. Today, you want to use a string of random characters. For example, 7nls%2MSjk4#4 is a password that experts suggest. There are random password generators that make it easy.
Your mom should not be using the same password for every account. At a minimum, she should have one secure password she uses for stores, one for banks, one for email, one for work-related things, and one for personal accounts. It’s best to have a unique password for everything.
With the use of stronger passwords, experts don’t recommend changing passwords monthly now. It’s better to change passwords once or twice a year. This could all change, so it’s important to keep up with the latest advice from technology experts.
What Virus Protection is She Using?
Virus protection is great, but the software your mom uses now should also check for malware, spyware, and ransomware. The software should monitor and protect your mom from threats each time she loads a new website. There are free programs out there, but she may prefer to buy one. Use sites like CNET to get the latest recommendations on the most effective software.
You need to also keep your mom safe. If she’s struggling to keep up with laundry and housework. Look at elderly care services that make it easier for her to age at home. Caregivers help with transportation, meals, and companionship. Talk to an elderly care agency to learn more.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring elderly care in Upland, CA, contact the caring staff at No Place Like Home Homecare today at 951-382-5266.
About Kristi Duran
Kristi Duran is the owner of No Place Like Home Homecare. Kristi started NPLH because of her absolute love for seniors. She was raised by her grandparents from the day she was born. Kristi has a special connection to seniors and understands their wishes and needs to stay independent.
Kristi has worked in the medical field for years and has seen first-hand how aging seniors want nothing more than to age in the comfort of their own home with dignity and grace. At NPLH, she and her caregivers insure that this happens.
NPLH is not a large franchise. It is a personal family owned homecare service. This insures a one on one personalized touch. Kristi is available 24 hours a day to her clients and their families.
