Staying Safe Online
Getting online is like opening up a door into a whole new world - one packed with endlessly fascinating information and entertainment, yet with scammers coming up with new tricks on a daily basis, it's not surprising that some of us are a bit nervous about getting online.
Here are some of our top tips to keep yourself safe or support friends and family stay safe online.
Trust your common sense, if you’re not sure, don’t risk it
Anti virus software - Use anti-virus software on your computer and keep it up to date (usually annually) to stop rogue messages and links infecting your computer
The padlock sign
Shopping online? Check for the ‘padlock’ sign on the www. address bar. This means the site is secure
Unknown senders - Never respond to emails from people you don’t know. You haven’t won money from a competition you didn’t enter, and a foreign prince isn’t a distant relation who is desperate to share his millions with you.
Personal Information - Now more than ever, scammers disguise themselves as people or organisations that you may be familiar with. So even if you think its genuine, these organisations will NEVER ask you to part with personal information or bank details over the phone or online
Passwords - Don’t write passwords down and don’t share them with others. If you really really can’t remember them all, make sure usernames and passwords are written down in different places, in different rooms of the house and where possible ‘in code’ or with discreet reminders to yourself, rather than writing the passwords in full.
Bank - Your bank will NEVER ask for password information or for you to transfer money to another or new account.
Still unsure? - Ask a trusted neighbour, organisation or friend to check out a suspicious email, text or call for you before parting with any personal information.
The friendly Silver Sircle tech team are also on hand. They are DBS checked and able to walk you through all your digital and tech queries. Get in touch
Want to find out more about Staying Safe Online?
Read the SilverSircle free guide on how to spot scammers tricks