Smart habits for staying safe online

The internet has made life easier in so many ways. It has empowered us to keep in touch with family and friends, pay our bills, shop from home, and book appointments. But just like in the real world, it's important to know how to stay safe while enjoying the convenience the online world provides.

The good news is you don't need to be a technology expert to stay safe. A few simple habits can make a big difference.

Stop and think before you click

Scammers are becoming more cunning every year. They may convincingly pretend to be a company or person you already know and trust, and their messages often create a sense of urgency, hoping you'll act before you've had time to think.

If something feels unexpected or doesn't seem quite right, pause before clicking any links or opening attachments. When in doubt, contact the organisation directly using a phone number or website you already know, rather than the details provided in the message.

Look for the padlock symbol in your browser's address bar, make purchases only from reputable businesses, and avoid logging into banking or shopping accounts when using public Wi-Fi. Remember to monitor your bank statements so you can quickly spot any unfamiliar transactions.

Protect your passwords

Your passwords are the keys to your digital life. Although using the same password for every account might seem like the easiest thing to do, in actual fact this can make it much easier for criminals if one account is compromised. For better protection, choose strong, unique passwords that are difficult to guess. If remembering them all feels impossible, a reputable online password manager can securely store them for you.

If available, it's a good idea to switch on two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone, before someone can access your account.

Be careful what you share

Social media is a wonderful way to stay connected, but keep in mind how much personal information you make public. Avoid sharing details such as your full address, financial information or travel plans. The less information scammers have, the harder it is for them to impersonate you or target you with convincing scams.

Keep your devices up to date

When your phone, tablet or computer asks you to install updates, it can be tempting to press "Later." However, these updates often contain important security improvements that protect your device from the latest online threats. Remembering to install updates regularly is one of the easiest ways to improve your online safety.

Learn to recognise common scams

Many scams follow familiar patterns. You might receive a message claiming you've won a prize, owe money, need to verify your account immediately, or that a loved one is in trouble and needs urgent financial help.

Remember these simple rules:

• Never feel pressured to act immediately.
• Never send money or gift cards because someone asks online or by text.
• Never give out passwords or one-time security codes.
• If you're unsure, ask someone you trust before responding.

It's always better to take a few extra minutes than to make a costly mistake.

Don't be embarrassed to ask for help

Anyone can be caught by a scam. Criminals are skilled at making fake emails, websites and phone calls look genuine.

If something doesn't seem right, ask a family member, friend or someone you trust for a second opinion. Most people would much rather answer a quick question than help deal with the consequences of a scam later.

Free help is available

New Zealand's online safety organisation, Netsafe, has created an excellent collection of free resources specifically for older adults. Their easy-to-read guides, videos and checklists cover everything from spotting scams and using social media safely to securing your devices and understanding new technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Whether you're just getting started online or simply want to refresh your knowledge, it's a valuable resource for building confidence and staying safe.

Find out more: Netsafe's Older People online safety hub