Seminar: Staying Safe Online - Protecting Yourself and Your Loved Ones
Join Michael McNally after church on zoom for "Staying Safe Online" on Aug 31, 2025, to learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones from increasing online dangers. While technology offers "superpowers" to connect and understand, it also presents significant threats, with Americans seniors reporting nearly $4.9 billion in fraud losses in 2024. This essential talk will delve into major threats such as phishing and social engineering, identity theft, malware and ransomware, malvertising and scams, and emerging AI threats including deepfakes. Discover practical defenses, from creating good passwords and considering password managers to recognizing deceptive tactics and adopting a crucial "security mindset" to navigate the digital world safely.
Staying Safe Online: Quick Tips
1. Phishing & Social Engineering
Tricks to steal personal info by posing as trusted sources.
Be skeptical of urgency or “too good to be true.”
Verify on official sites—don’t click links or call numbers in messages.
Never share passwords or SSN unless you initiated contact.
Watch for hot scams: Zelle/wire transfers, fake invoices, unpaid tolls, “compromised accounts,” gift card or crypto payments.
2. Identity Theft & Impersonation
Using stolen data to commit fraud.
Limit what you share online; beware shoulder-surfing.
Strong passwords + 2FA; enable phone anti-theft.
Monitor bank/credit accounts; use AnnualCreditReport.com.
Freeze credit with Equifax, Experian, TransUnion.
Shred sensitive mail.
If hit, go to IdentityTheft.gov.
3. Malware & Ransomware
Malicious software that steals data or locks devices.
Keep antivirus & system updates current.
Use 2FA & Passkeys.
Avoid suspicious attachmentsUSBspublic Wi-Fi.
Back up data.
Use VPN or your own router.
4. Malvertising & Online Scams
Fake ads, stores, romance, investments, tech support.
Research sellers, reviews, contact info, site quality.
Don’t trust unsolicited offers or cold calls.
Verify online contacts before sharing money/info.
Use an ad blocker (uBlock Origin, 1Blocker).
5. AI Threats: Deepfakes & Voice Cloning
AI creates realistic scams and misinformation.
Don’t trust voice/video identity alone.
Use family code words for emergencies.
Check videos for glitches or inconsistencies.
Be cautious with urgent or emotional content.
Limit personal details shared on social media.
General Mindset
Slow down—pause before you click.
Trust your gut.
Ask family/friends if unsure.
Manage your digital footprint.
Keep learning as threats evolve.
If You’re Scammed
Don’t pay ransoms.
Update passwords/security.
Contact banks immediately.
File police report if money lost.
Report to:
1-877-FTC-HELP
ReportFraud.ftc.gov
ic3.gov
