The 2025 Cyber Safety Checklist for Seniors

✅ TL;DR (Quick Summary)

Scams are smarter in 2025: AI-generated emails and texts look real.
Telecom breaches (like the Orange Belgium hack) prove SIM & phone data is a prime target.
Seniors should focus on app-based 2FA, spotting phishing, and protecting mobile numbers.
Keep devices updated, use strong Wi-Fi security, and always back up your data.
When in doubt: ask a trusted family member or call the official customer service line.

1. 🔑 Strong Authentication First

Use unique passwords for each account (a password manager helps).
Switch from SMS codes to app-based 2FA (Google Authenticator, Authy, Microsoft Authenticator).
Enable biometric locks (fingerprint or face ID) on phones and tablets.

💡 Why in 2025? Hackers increasingly exploit SIM cards. SMS 2FA can be intercepted; authenticator apps are safer.

2. 📩 Spot and Stop Scams

Phishing/Smishing: Don’t click links in emails or texts that urge “urgent action.”
Phone scams (vishing): Hang up and call back using the number from your provider’s bill.
Impersonation scams: Scammers may mention your real telecom plan or bank. Stay skeptical.

💡 New in 2025: AI tools make scam messages personalized and nearly typo-free.

3. 📱 Protect Your Mobile Number & SIM

Add a PIN to your SIM card.
Keep your PUK code private.
If your phone suddenly loses service, contact your provider immediately—it could be a SIM swap attempt.

4. 💻 Keep Devices & Apps Secure

Update devices and apps as soon as patches are available.
Install apps only from official stores (App Store, Google Play).
Use reputable antivirus or mobile security apps for extra protection.

5. 📶 Secure Your Home Internet

Use a strong Wi-Fi password.
Turn on WPA3 encryption if your router supports it.
Run updates on your router’s firmware regularly.
Offer visitors a guest Wi-Fi instead of your main network.

6. 🌍 Be Careful on Public Wi-Fi

Don’t log into banks or email on public Wi-Fi.
If you must, use a VPN that encrypts your data.

7. 💾 Back Up What Matters

Back up documents, photos, and contacts to cloud services (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive).
Keep a physical backup (USB stick or external hard drive) for peace of mind.

8. 👀 Monitor for Unusual Activity

Watch for suspicious postal mail, calls, or texts.
Check your credit file periodically if available in your country.
Sign up for bank alerts (text/email notifications).

9. 📚 Stay Informed & Supported

Follow trusted organizations like the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or National Cybersecurity Centre (depending on your region).
Ask trusted family or friends to help review suspicious emails or texts.
Consider local senior-friendly digital safety workshops.

10. 🆘 Know Where to Get Help

If something feels wrong, pause and ask for help.
Contact companies using numbers on official statements, never those sent in a suspicious text.
Keep your telecom’s dedicated hotline saved in your phone.

❓ Cyber Safety FAQs for Seniors

Why is SMS 2FA unsafe now?

In 2025, scammers increasingly hijack mobile numbers through SIM swap attacks. If your number is stolen, criminals can intercept texted 2FA codes.
➡️ Use an authenticator app (Google, Microsoft, Authy) instead of SMS.

How do I know if I’m being scammed?

Warning signs of a scam include:

Messages that feel urgent (“act now” / “final warning”).
Unexpected requests for personal or banking details.
Phone calls or texts with links you weren’t expecting.

Always pause and confirm by calling the official number on your bill or bank card.

What should I do if I clicked a suspicious link?

Disconnect from Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Run a scan with your antivirus/security app.
Change your password immediately for the affected service.
Ask for help from a trusted family member or contact your provider.

Do I really need backups?

Yes. Backups protect against:

Ransomware that locks your files.
Device loss or theft.
Accidental deletion of important documents or photos.

➡️ Use both cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive) and a physical backup (USB or external hard drive).

📢 Final Thoughts

Cyber threats in 2025 are smarter, faster, and more personal. Seniors are often targeted because scammers assume they’re less tech-savvy—but with the right habits, you can stay one step ahead.

By using strong authentication, learning to spot scams, and protecting your mobile number, you’ll greatly reduce your risk. Most importantly, never be afraid to ask for help—cyber safety is a team effort.