Baby Boomers are a hacker’s favourite generation

In the 21st century it seems virtually impossible to imagine a world without technology. With houses even becoming enhanced with digital features, technology is ingrained in our daily lives. But what about those of you who grew up in a time where computers were a futuristic idea? How are you supposed to suddenly be tech savvy?

I asked one of my older relatives why he gets hacked so often, his response was “I was born in a time when there was none of this technology, so it is not my fault if I am hacked” this may be true, but it definitely is not the right mindset to have.

Whether you like it or not, you are needing to use technology to function and this means that you are having to give out private information that if not kept safe, will be compromised.

It should be more of a priority to educate yourself to learn the do’s and don’ts when it comes to cyber security, especially if you were born at the beginning of this generation.  You could be retired or thinking about it and if your bank account gets breached, it could leave you with nothing and that is a risk no one should be willing to take.

Starting with passwords. Never use the same passwords for everything.  This is one of the main reasons that accounts get breached. Yes, it is easier to use the same password for everything or a very simple password, but by not ensuring you have a more secure password you open yourself up to attacks. All accounts that use the same password will be breached!

Second, is trying to understand why you are receiving all those spam emails? This is because you don’t have anything blocking these malicious emails from getting to your inbox. When the emails do get through, they are designed to trick you into entering your personal details onto compromised or fake websites. Opening attachments from unknown users or clicking on links will infect your device. Antivirus is not enough, you need additional security layers to keep you cyber safe. Do not simply trust every email that comes in, make sure it is from the right person before taking any action or divulging any information.

Third, cyber attacks can also start by answering phone calls or responding to a sms from an unknown spammer. No matter how convincing they sound, do not give up any personal data. If they are from a legitimate business, they will have alternative methods of correctly identifying you. A good rule of thumb is that if you didn’t make the call, you shouldn’t give up any information.  Don’t fall for these social engineering tricks, you do not need to give your credit card details for lifetime antivirus subscriptions over the telephone.

It is ok to ask for help. If your computer is not secured, make sure you have someone who you can call and get help from. If you are tired of eye rolls from your children or nieces and nephews, ask the team at J2 Home Secure. We provide managed cyber security for all users. Our team is here to help, without the sighing and eye rolls.

Don’t let these cyber criminals take advantage of you. Take the initiative to be two steps ahead and actually care if you are hacked or not. Rather than thinking this isn’t your fight, equip yourself with the weapon of knowledge and be a part of the fight against cyber crime!

Let’s get real.

Olivia-Hannah Coetzee