Today's Reading
"The phone should serve the person — not the other way around."
The
Smartphone Journalism for Adults 60+
Section
Adults over 60 lost a reported $3.4 billion to online scams in 2023 (FBI IC3). This category is updated weekly with current scam patterns and protective settings, reviewed against guidance from the FTC, AARP Fraud Watch Network, and the FBI's IC3 reports.
In-Depth · Safety & Scams
Scam texts copy real companies almost perfectly. The five tells below catch nearly all of them — even the ones that fool me at first glance.
By Suzy Ahn · 11 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
The grandparent scam is a particularly cruel form of fraud, preying on our love and concern for our grandchildren. As a technology educator, I've seen firsthand how these clever schemes can shake even the most tech-savvy seniors. But with a bit of awareness, you can protect yourself and your hard-earned savings.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
Losing your phone feels like losing a piece of yourself. But don't panic! Taking immediate, smart steps can make all the difference in recovering your device and protecting your personal information.
By Suzy Ahn · 15 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
Have you ever received a text about an unexpected package delivery? You're not alone. These 'smishing' scams are incredibly common, and understanding how they work is your first line of defense.
By Suzy Ahn · 12 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
The phone rings, and an official-sounding voice claims to be from the Social Security Administration. They say there's a problem with your benefits, or even that your Social Security number has been suspended. My dear readers, these calls are almost always scams, and they're designed to scare you into making a mistake.
By Suzy Ahn · 15 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
Navigating the world of free public Wi-Fi can feel like a maze, full of convenience but also hidden dangers. As a technology educator, I've seen firsthand the confusion and concern it causes. This article will help you use public Wi-Fi confidently and securely.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
Robocalls are more than just an annoyance; they're often a gateway to scams targeting unsuspecting individuals. This article provides practical, step-by-step instructions for older adults to reclaim their peace and privacy by blocking these incessant calls on both iPhones and Android devices.
By Suzy Ahn · 9 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
In today's digital world, keeping your online accounts safe can feel like a daunting task. But there's a powerful tool called two-factor authentication, or 2FA, that acts like a double lock on your digital doors.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
The question of whether to use a password manager comes up often in my classes. It's a valid concern, especially with so much of our lives moving online. Let's explore the pros and cons.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
My dear readers, the digital world, while a source of incredible connection and convenience, also harbors a darker side. Lately, I've been hearing more and more about a particularly insidious trick: the Amazon impersonation scam call. It's designed to prey on trust, and it's something we absolutely must talk about.
By Suzy Ahn · 9 min read
Quick Guide · Safety & Scams
Online connections can bring joy, but for older adults, they also bring risks. I'll share how to recognize romance scams and keep your heart and wallet safe.
By Suzy Ahn · 10 min read
Choosing a Smartphone
Honest, hands-on advice on picking the right phone for older adults — iPhone vs. Android, simplified phones, and what to ignore.
Setup & Basics
Step-by-step walkthroughs for the first day with a new phone — Wi-Fi, Apple ID, Google Account, contacts, and home-screen basics.
Accessibility & Vision
Larger text, louder ringtones, hearing-aid pairing, screen-reader and tremor-friendly settings on both iPhone and Android.
Apps for Seniors
Hand-picked apps for video calls, medication reminders, large-print news, transportation, and staying in touch with grandchildren.
Troubleshooting
Plain-language fixes for the most common phone problems — 'no sound,' 'frozen screen,' 'storage full,' and battery surprises.