Today’s seniors are embracing the digital world with confidence. From online shopping and banking to staying connected with family and enjoying entertainment, technology has become a regular part of everyday life for adults ages 65 and older. February 10 is Safer Internet Day, making it a good moment to pause and reflect on a few common online habits that can unintentionally create risk.
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Seniors’ growing digital comfort shows up in the data. Nearly all seniors surveyed as part of the “Connecting the Digital Dots: Online Habits and Safety Concerns Across Three Generations” survey from Cox Mobile consider themselves digitally literate. In fact, 41% reported spending five or more hours online each day.
While 61% of seniors who encountered digital threats were able to resolve the issue themselves, increased online engagement brings new challenges and responsibilities for caregivers, who often play a crucial role in supporting seniors’ digital journeys. Helping seniors avoid common pitfalls and employing safety strategies can empower seniors to make informed, safe choices online.
Below are six online mistakes seniors make, along with simple ways to avoid them.
1. Using weak or repeated passwords: Simple passwords, such as number sequences, keyboard patterns or personal details like names, birthdays, addresses or pets, are easier for scammers to guess. While 70% of seniors already create strong, unique passwords, problems can arise when the same password is reused across multiple accounts. A password manager app can help by securely storing passwords and eliminating the need to write them down, which can create risk if that information is not kept in a safe place.
2. Skipping updates to security software: Even careful internet users can be vulnerable if their devices are not protected. Although 63% of surveyed seniors have security software installed, it is important to regularly check that it is up to date or that automatic updates are turned on. Security software should cover all devices, including smartphones, tablets and laptops, not just one primary computer.
3. Not turning on multi-factor authentication: Multi-factor authentication adds a powerful extra layer of protection by requiring a second step, often a code sent to a phone number or email, when signing in. While 60% of seniors are already using this feature, some may need help setting it up, especially for important accounts like online banking, email or social media. Once enabled, it can stop many unauthorized login attempts before they ever become a problem.
4. Letting unused or unfamiliar apps pile up: Over time, phones and tablets can collect apps that are no longer needed or that were downloaded accidentally. While 51% of surveyed seniors remove unsafe apps, it is a good habit to periodically review devices for anything unfamiliar and delete it. Also check for unexpected charges, unusual data sharing or unfamiliar browser extensions.
5. Ignoring built-in privacy and safety settings: Many devices and apps include built-in safety tools that are not automatically turned on. Only 43% of surveyed seniors said they take advantage of these settings. Simple steps, like limiting data sharing, disabling location tracking, blocking pop-ups and restricting unwanted communication, can significantly improve online privacy and reduce exposure to scams.
6. Not talking regularly about online safety: Because technology is ever-changing, online safety conversations are not a one-and-done. It’s important for caregivers to have ongoing dialogues with senior loved ones. Open, ongoing conversations, like one-third of seniors already have several times a week or even daily, can help build trust and awareness of current scams, suspicious texts or emails, commonly used apps and more.
By keeping communication open, sharing practical tips and using trusted resources, seniors and caregivers can work together to make the online experience safer and more enjoyable. In addition. Cox Mobile, in partnership with Common Sense Media, offers educational materials on digital safety, smart device use and media literacy for all ages. To learn more, visit your local Cox Mobile store or go to CoxMobileSafety.com for additional tips, guides and the full survey results.
