Though many brick and mortar stores still line the streets and outlying areas of many cities, more people than ever before are shopping online – and why not? You can’t experience any more convenience, anywhere! Open up your laptop (or touch your phone), pull up a shopping site, order what you want, and sit back and wait for it to be delivered to your door. Yes, online shopping is fast, convenient, and enjoyable – more times than not.
Unfortunately, today’s retirees tend to be a target for scammers and thieves. Online shopping is a place where bad things sometimes happen. Here’s some advice regarding online shopping safety tips for seniors.
Online Shopping: Hidden Dangers
Where retirees are concerned, there can be some dangers hiding in the online shopping experience. If you’re not used to using the Internet, you may be intimidated by the thought of online shopping. Internet fraud is targeted at older individuals who may not be as knowledgeable or experienced about online shopping as are others.
Every year, more than $12 billion is lost by retirees in online scams. Fortunately, many e-commerce stores are investing in more security measures to ensure a safer buying experience.
Let’s take a look at a couple of opportunities for buying online, and how to be safe.
Buying Online: Secondhand Goods
There are numerous sites at which you can purchase pre-owned items. Some great deals can be found in this manner. However, some precautions need to be taken when you’re buying something second-hand. Many of these buying/selling opportunities require in-person transactions. Here are some safety tips:
- Always pay in cash
- Never offer private information
- Before you hand over any money, inspect the item closely
- If you agree to an in-person transaction, always meet in a well-populated, public area during the day. Bring a friend with you.
- Always get a record of the transaction in writing
- Whenever possible, research both the item and the seller to make sure this isn’t a scam
Buying Online: E-Commerce Apps
One of the best tips here involves familiarizing yourself with today’s technology. The savvier you are about your smartphone, laptop, tablet, apps, e-commerce software, etc., the more protected you will be. You may decide to take a class involving any of the just mentioned items.
Here are some security tips:
- Only use Wi-Fi resources that are trusted
- Unknown attachments should not be downloaded
- Rather than a password, use a passphrase.
- If you don’t know someone, don’t send them money
- Never provide sensitive or personal information to anyone on the Internet
Reside in a Resort-Like Setting at Conservatory At Alden Bridge
When you choose to live your golden years at Conservatory At Alden Bridge, you will enjoy living in a safe, secure environment. Our housekeeping and maintenance programs allow you to be free to do the things that mean the most. You’ll finally have time to truly enjoy retirement.
If you’re looking for a maintenance-free, affordable lifestyle – and you’re an active retiree – our independent senior living homes are a perfect fit. Rest easy knowing that, 24 hours a day, there’s a professional security team nearby for your protection and peace of mind.
Would you like to find out more? Call 832-409-0147 with your leasing and sales inquiries. Any other questions can be directed to a representative at 281-681-3102. You can also use our convenient online form to contact us.
Best of all, you can schedule a tour and see for yourself all we have to offer. You’ll be glad you did. We look forward to speaking with you.
