Seniors and Privacy – Part 3

Here is a list of Do’s and Don’ts in our final installment for seniors seeking to protect their privacy:

• DO shred all confidential material.
• DO use encrypted networks to access sensitive accounts.
• DO obtain copies of your credit report at least annually.
• DO use strong passwords and change them at least annually.
• DO hang up if you receive a call or text from a company; DO call the company back with the number on your statement or card.
• DO always ask why certain types of personal information are needed before obtaining a service, especially when a social security number is requested.
• DO change your telephone number if you have to.
• DO ask for help if you are unsure.

• Do NOT click on links in emails and text messages.
• Do NOT give out your passwords.
• Do NOT answer suspicious calls or texts.
• Do NOT give out personal information over the phone, in particular, a social security number unless you initiated the call.

Trying to prevent a privacy loss takes a little time and effort, but it is far less than the cost of dealing with the aftermath.