'Silver surfers' are known to be the fastest-growing group of online users. It is important as you embrace the online world to remember to adopt safe and secure internet behaviours along the way.
You are discovering the internet is appealing for all sorts of reasons, whether that is staying connected with family and friends, finding online bargains or researching new information. However, new internet users are more like to encounter cyber-crime, so there are a few simple tips we encourage you to follow to help ensure your online experience is safer and more enjoyable.
Take advantage of the information below, from expert advice to information about programs you can participate in and find out how you can get better connected with your friends, family and the world around you.
Quick tips
Tips For Silver Surfers
- Change passwords at least twice a year.
- Passwords should be completely random and unique, but still memorable. Try using numbers and letters.
- Install security software and update regularly.
- Think before you click on links or attachments from unknown sources - it could have a virus.
- Be careful about what information you disclose about yourself f and others online.
- Don't leave a computer while your account is still logged in, anyone could start using it.
- Be wary of emails, phone calls or SMS messages from unknown sources asking you to update, validate or confirm your account details, password or personal information
- Don't respond to offers, deals or requests for your details - independently check the offer.
- Never send money, credit card, account or other personal details to unsolicited offers. Scams often ask for this kind of information in this way.
- Always type the address of a website you are wanting to look at in the address bar
For more top tips for this age group see:
Tips to help you shop safely online | Tips to help keep your mobile phone safe | Telstra's handy tips for online games | Common scams to be aware of | Cyber-safety tips for social networking
Advice and Stories
Jenny
Jenny is a retiree and uses the internet for online banking, email, researching new information and for recipes. Jenny explains how they protect their home computer and what to do if you receive an email from an unrecognised address.
Watch Video View transcript (Word 28 KB)
Louise
Louise is a grandmother of five and lives on a farm. She uses the internet to look up the weather, email and to keep in touch with friends. Here, Louise explains how she teaches her grandchildren to use the internet safely and also shares advice on how she protects herself when online.
Watch Video View transcript (Word 28 KB)
Gadget guy Peter Blasina talks cyber-safety
Gadget guy Pete Blasina is one of Australia's leading technology 'demystifyers' for consumers. Here Peter provides top tips for his generation and how they can get the most out of today's technology - and stay safe.
Watch Video View transcript (Word 30 KB)
ACCC Deputy Chair Peter Kell talks smartphone scam awareness and security tips
Smartphones are becoming a big part of many Australians' lives but unfortunately scammers also love new technology and will try to take advantage of any opportunities it offers. In this scam awareness video ACCC Deputy Chair Peter Kell discuss how to use your device safely and how to outsmart scammers.
ACCC Deputy Chair Peter Kell talks personalised scams awareness
Personalised scams occur when a scammer gathers your personal information and uses it to specifically target you with a scam. In this video ACCC Deputy Chair Peter Kell discuss some specific examples of personalised scams and how to avoid them.
Nan Bosler - Case Study
Nan Bosler, is the President of the Australian Seniors Computers Club Association (ASCCA) the national peak body for seniors and technology. Their prime objective is to help seniors become computer literate and to explore the satisfaction and benefits that come with using technology. Here Nan shares her experience of using the internet and what she does to stay safe online.
Links and Resources
Telstra Connected Seniors
The Telstra Connected Seniors® program helps older Australians learn more about technology. It offers individual self teach guides, fun interactive workshops, and also offers eligible community groups with the opportunity of funding to run successful training courses around technology.Website:
Telstra Connected Seniors - Upcoming events and workshops
Unravel the mysteries of mobile phones, texting , talking and sending photos, emailing and the internet in easy Telstra Connected Seniors® hands on workshops. Check out the timetable for a time and location that suits you.Website:
ACMA - online social networking
Learn more about the things you can do to protect yourself when using online social networking sites.Website:
ACMA - online dating
To find out more about the things you can do to stay safe online meeting new people, making new friends, and maybe even finding that special connection. Website:
AMTA - mind your mobile manners
The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) encourages individuals to use their mobile phones in a responsible manner and to be considerate and aware of situations where using their mobile phone might annoy others Website:
Threatsaurus - the a-z of computer and data security threats
The Threatsaurus is a fun and simple to understand A-Z of computer and data security threats. It was developed by Sophos, a world leader in IT security and data protection.
Whether you're an IT professional, use a computer at work, or just browse the internet, this book is for you. It will tell you the facts about the threats to your computers and to your data in simple, easy-to-understand language.
Website:Trading Post Trust & Safety Centre
Trading Post has a dedicated Trust and Safety Centre. Here you can learn about the latest scams, what are safe payment methods and tips for staying safe when buying and selling online.Website:
Telstra Cyber-safety blog (by Darren Kane)
Darren is Telstra's Officer of Internet Trust & Safety and the Director of Telstra's Corporate Security & Investigations group. As Darren continues to blog, he will provide cyber safety advice for families and individuals of all ages, covering a range of topics. Website:
Why is it important to stay secure online?
To ensure the safety of your family, safeguard information on your computer, protect your personal details and restrict unauthorised use of your computer. Website:
What is BigPond® doing to help fight spam?
BigPond® is committed to reducing the amount of spam that reaches the mailboxes of BigPond Members and originates on our network. Find out what we are doing to help. Website:
Google Family Safety Centre
Google's Family Safety Centre has been designed to provide all of its users with a safe experience. On this site you’ll find helpful tools, tips and advice as well as information on how to report abuse in Google products.
Facebook resources
Facebook have a number of resources designed to help you enjoy positive social networking:
- Facebook Family Safety Centre – a page of tools and resources for parents, teachers and teens.
- Facebook Safety Page – a page to get updates and give feedback on safety issues.
- Facebook Security Page– a page to receive updates about how to protect your information both on and off Facebook.
ACMA's Cybersmart program
When a group of high-school friends post a rumour about a rival, it sparks a chain reaction that leaves no one untouched. Cyberbullying, sexting, filmed fights and police action follow - will these friends be Tagged forever? A short film developed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority's Cybersmart program, Tagged is a drama for Australian teenagers that explores cyberbullying, sexting, digital reputation and personal responsibility.
