easy FEELING

Computer safety

Avoiding scams

• Remember this simple truth: No one can scam you if you refuse to talk to them. Never buy anything from anyone unless you initiated the transaction. Set up voicemail on your home phone and cellphone and send all unrecognized calls directly to it. Screen your voicemail and call back only those you choose.

• Remember there is no such thing as a free lunch. If someone offers you something for nothing, most often there is a cost of some kind. No matter how tempting the offer, refuse if it seems too good to believe, especially if you must pay something for it.

• Don't respond to texts from numbers you don't recognize and never click on unsolicited links in them. If you think it is valid, contact to verify before responding.

• Our connected world offers many wonderful and convenient opportunities, but it is fraught with peril for those who are not cautious. Never connect a computer to the internet without properly installed and updated antivirus and antimalware software. (Apple products require a bit more in-depth discussion.) If you are not sufficiently literate with computers to maintain this software, find someone you trust to do it for you. Or else, you simply must avoid using the web. We know that is a harsh view, but it is just that serious.

• Online dating and matchmaking are now quite common among our population. Many reputable sites exist. However, criminals have grown quite sophisticated at mining data and targeting vulnerable individuals. These victims are often senior citizens who are struggling with loneliness. If you, or someone you care for, becomes romantically involved in an online relationship, please be aware that, sooner or later, the fraudster will signal some form of distress, perhaps a health crisis or something that requires relocation. Any request for money is an almost certain indicator that you are a victim of this particularly heartbreaking form of fraud. Please recognize it for what it is. You may also consider checking with risk management specialists at your bank for additional safeguards in this area.

For more information about scams and security, visit www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/members-only/member-benefits/ 2023/04/aarp-bulletin-issue-april-2023.pdf