Many scammers successfully take money from seniors every month. One of the successful scams happens online. Your mom or dad goes to install a new app or program on their computer and get a warning that the download was infected. The computer locks up and gives a number to call for help.
Home Care Services in Ardmore PA: Avoiding a Cyber Scam
This is a common scam. Many seniors don’t realize that warning is, in fact, the scam. They think the number will help fix the issue and get their computer operational. Instead, the scammer will continue to ask for more and more money after running into “issues.” If the senior refuses to pay, the scammer remotely locks all access to the computer.
How Do Your Parents Protect Themselves?
There are five steps your parents need to take to stay safe. The first is to install a security suite that protects against malware, spyware, viruses, and many other common threats. There are free security suites available, or they could spend money on software for optimal protection.
The second step is to make sure the software is updated daily. Your parents should make sure the antivirus software suite’s settings look for and install updates automatically. It should also be set to run virus scans daily without a reminder.
The third is to turn on and stay behind a firewall. Firewalls protect from outside intruders. Think of it as a deadbolt on your computer. Someone outside your house can’t get in easily if you have set the deadbolt. A firewall works the same way. It’s there to lock outsiders out.
The operating system is the fourth step. Make sure your parents check for updates regularly and install them as soon as possible. They probably have Windows as their operating system. They may have Linux instead. No matter what they use, they’re better off allowing it to automatically update the system when needed.
Finally, your parents need to avoid attachments. If they get an attachment, they shouldn’t open it without scanning it for viruses first. They should ask friends where the attachment came from before opening it. If it’s from a stranger, they shouldn’t open it at all.
Have Others Help Your Parents With Computers
If your parents are alone all day, make sure you’re comfortable with their computer knowledge. If they struggle with computer safety, hire caregivers from a home care agency to spend time with them. If they have someone to socialize with, they’re less likely to spend time online.
Caregivers can also help them remember to scan for issues. They can also remind your parents to update software as soon as they turn on their computer. Call a home care agency for more information.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Care Services in Ardmore, PA, please talk to the caring staff at Better Care Home Health Services LLC today. Serving individuals and their families in Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery and Bucks counties. Call Today: (267) 766-5218
Better Care Home Health Services is a family-owned agency dedicated to providing excellent and comprehensive home health care to individuals and families of Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery and Bucks counties. We are honored that God has blessed us with the opportunity to positively impact and change people’s lives. It is our mission to ensure that we provide the very best of care to our clients.
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