Senior Security Online: Protecting Against AI Internet Scams

The internet has become just another everyday-life tool, one that lets us connect with each other and the world around us. As convenient as that connection is, it requires us to be hyper-vigilant when it comes to online security, particularly for seniors. Because just as technology has rapidly evolved over the years, so has the tactics of scammers, who are now using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to deceive people. Visiting Angels of The Greater Susquehanna Valley is available to help local Lewisburg-area seniors stay safe online and protect against the sophisticated scams that are facing us today.

Understanding AI and Online Scams

It seems like the topic of AI recently exploded in the last few years. Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is a technology that essentially allows computers to learn from data and perform tasks in a way that would typically only be achievable by human intelligence. For many of us, this is something only seen in movies–but now AI has become a part of everyday life. Unfortunately, scammers have found ways to use AI to access sensitive data, like banking information and social security numbers, to take advantage of people, particularly seniors. They often do this by misusing AI to create very convincing and personalized scams, making it even more important to stay informed.

Common AI Scams Targeting Seniors:

Knowing the type of scams that are currently going around can help seniors and their caregivers proactively stand against them. Scammers can target seniors through their email filters, virtual assistants, online shopping, and more. Below are some of the most common scams currently going around that use AI.

• Phishing emails pose as emails from legitimate companies to encourage victims to share their private information or click on malicious links that can infect their computers.
• Smishing is the same as phishing, only through the use of fraudulent text messages instead of emails.
• Pharming redirects users to fraudulent websites without them knowing.
• Voice cloning uses manipulated voice recordings from your social media or other sources to replicate your voice.
• Deepfake videos are AI-generated videos that appear to show people doing or saying things they never did.

Scammers can use tactics like these to trick you into believing false information or to extort money. Older adults must be vigilant and take the proper precautions to protect themselves online. Additionally, as family and friends, it’s important to look out for each other and encourage caution when interacting with technology. 

Tips for Staying Safe Online

Here are three tips seniors and family members can use to reduce their risk of falling victim to AI scams. 

1. Bolster Email Security 

Email is one of the most common ways scammers gain access to your private data. Seniors can follow email security best practices to stay safe.

• Use strong passwords that consist of both upper and lower case letters, are more than 10 characters, and have numbers and symbols
• Never open emails from unrecognized email addresses
• Change passwords regularly
• Never click links in suspicious emails
• Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA)
• Never access email on public Wi-Fi 

2. Use Caution on Social Media 

According to the Pew Research Center, 45% of adults ages 65 and older use social media, including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Many scammers use social media to foster relationships with victims, either posing as a friend or potential romantic interest. After gaining the victim’s trust, they will then ask seniors to share their personal information or come up with false stories to encourage older adults to send them money.

Seniors should never accept friend requests from people they do not know and should never share their private information on social media platforms, including posting personal details or sharing them in private messages.

If a senior’s social media account is hacked, they should immediately change their passwords, report the problem to the platform, and check for suspicious activity on their banking statements. 

3. Strengthen Online Security 

In addition to being mindful of their email and social media accounts, older adults can also take steps to strengthen their online security. Some tips to try include:

• Ensure home internet networks have strong encryption and virtual private networks (VPN).
• Keeping devices and software up-to-date on phones and computers.
• Use unique passwords for each account and enable two-factor authentication when possible.

Visiting Angels of Lewisburg, PA, Helps Keep Seniors Safe 

Staying safe online doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few simple precautions, you can protect yourself from AI-driven scams and enjoy the benefits of the internet with confidence. 

Visiting Angels of Lewisburg’s compassionate and knowledgeable caregivers are here to keep you informed as we navigate the digital world together. Whether it’s assisting with online activities or offering advice recognizing scams, we’re here to help seniors maintain independence while staying protected. Contact us today at 570-768-4747 for more information.