Blog

January 24-28th is Data Privacy Week, a time to think about our data, how well it’s protected, and how we can better protect ourselves and our personal data. Today on the blog we’re going to explore the type of data that’s vulnerable, ways to protect our data, and basic computer cybersecurity tips. Today’s blog post was created with input from our friends at Digital Connecting Corps @ EMU.  

What Data Do Scammers Target? 

• Name 
• Address 
• Phone number 
• Date of birth 
• Passwords 
• Social Security Number 
• Credit card numbers 
• Bank account information  

Protecting Your Data 

• Use strong passwords 
  • Strong passwords AVOID… 
    • Using simple, easy to guess passwords (e.g., “Password123”). 
    • Using information that’s easy to guess or find online (e.g., your address, a pet name, your mother’s maiden name, or your last name). 
    • Using the same password for every website and app. 
  • Strong Passwords TEND TO… 
    • Be longer (15 or more characters). 
    • Contain at least one upper and lowercase letter and one number. 
    • Contain at least one special character (!@#$%). 
    • Be changed frequently (aim for every 3 months). 
• Don’t share your passwords or display them where they can be seen! 

Sharing Information    

• Be careful what information you share online and on social media.  
• Only open emails and files from people you know and trust.   
• Don’t click on any links in suspicious emails- even links to unsubscribe  
• Delete emails with subjects that look like spam or emails that come from people you don’t recognize.  

Protecting Your Computer 

• Make sure you have security measures on your computers and other electronic devices. (e.g., using a secure browser, firewall, and up-to-date antivirus software).  
• Make sure you have security software on your computer and that it’s up to date.   
• Set software to update automatically if possible.   
• Back up your computer regularly so you don’t lose anything important.    
• Use multi-factor authentication. This is an extra security step such as a fingerprint, a PIN, or a security question.   

Need tech help? 

• AsKevin– Digital coaches can assist with security, organizing technology, setting up devices, passwords, and more.  

• Chelsea Senior Center Technology Support (drop in, Wednesdays 10am-noon)- Need help with your computer, laptop, phone, or tablet? Expert volunteers can help and offer guidance. Bring in your passwords and/or log-in IDs so they can better assist you. 

• Dexter Library One-on-One Computer Help (must sign up in advance). Bring your own device so that you can practice on. 
  • Examples of potential topics include Tablets, Smart Phones, Downloadable Library Content, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Windows, photo editing, social media, and basic computer usage.   

• Milan Public Library (registration required)– The library offers one-on-one assistance for a variety of computer basics through the Book A Librarian service. Visit or call (734) 439-1240 for more information. 

• Saline Area Senior Center Individual Tech Lessons (registration required) – Saline High School are available for one-on-one tech help: basic cell phone, laptop, and tablet. Call 734- 429-9274 to schedule an appointment. 
  • Appointments are $5 for up to 45 minutes. 

• Turner Wellness Program Technology Mentors (Registration required). Call 734- 998-9353 for an appointment. Assistance for questions related to computers, internet, e-mail, cell phones, and other issues as requested.   
  • Fee: $10/hr. Scholarships available.   

• UM/EMU Digital Connecting Corps– Offers ongoing classes covering basic computer skills. For more information email [email protected].  

• Washtenaw Literacy– Offers free tutoring in digital skills for adults. No registration needed. 
  • Meets Fridays from January-April from noon-2:00 pm at the Ypsilanti District Library off Whittaker Road (computer lab is on the 2nd floor). Call (734) 337-3370 for more information.  

• Ypsilanti Library- Offers one-on-one and group technology classes (registration required). For more information click here or call one of the numbers below:  
  • One-on-one tech help (1 hour, come prepared with questions): (734) 482-4110 x1384 
  • Group classes: (734) 482-4110 x1377 

Did you know that Senior Resource Connect has a cybersecurity training? Email [email protected] to schedule a training or find a training near you!