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The internet can be a lifeline for people with dementia. It’s a great way of staying connected, for example via social media or chatting with friends and family on Zoom. It can also help you stay independent, by making it easier to do your shopping and manage your day to day finances for example through online banking.

But just as in the real world, there are risks and dangers associated with being online, especially when it comes to money. Read on for 5 simple steps you can take to protect yourself and stay safe online.

5 ways to keep your money safe online

1. Look after your personal information

Never share your bank details, passwords or PIN numbers, especially not with people you don’t know or in response to an unexpected email or phone call. Remember, no genuine organisation will ever ask you to share this information. HSBC has more advice and guidance on online safety.

2. Use strong passwords
   There are lots of simple ways to make your online passwords more secur
3. e:

✔ Try to use different passwords for different accounts.
✔ Make your passwords hard to guess. Avoid personal information (like your name), common words (like “password”) or predictable patterns (like “1234”).
✔If you need a written reminder, try writing down a question or prompt rather than the password itself.
✔Ask someone you trust to help you use on online password manager, where you can store all your usernames and passwords securely.

Want to know more? Read the AgeUK guide to password security.

3. Don’t click on suspicious links
   If you get an email or message from someone you don’t know, or it just doesn’t look right, trust your instinct. Don’t click on any links or download attachments. If you’re not sure, ask a trusted friend or family member to check the message for you.
4. Adjust your privacy settings
   If you have a Facebook or Instagram account, or use any other type of social media, make sure your settings are set to “private”. This means that only people you know and are connected with can see your posts.
5. Ask for support when you need it
   Whether you need help to set up online banking, or you’re worried that a message you’ve received may be a scam, talk to someone you trust.

Want advice on keeping your money safe online?

The internet can be a great tool for managing your bills and financial affairs. There’s plenty of advice out there to help you keep your money safe online, making the most of the benefits and avoiding some of the pitfalls:

• HSBC offers advice and support to manage your finances and stay safe online. If you’re with another bank, contact them direct to find out about their support for people with dementia.
• The Alzheimer’s Society has a useful guide to all aspects of managing your money.
• AgeUK has some good general advice on staying safe online.

Need more support? ADSS is here to support with advice and guidance on all aspects of living with dementia, including managing your finances. Contact us to find out how we could help you.