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Protecting Oshawa Seniors from Digital Fraud & Tech Scams
Protecting Oshawa Seniors from Digital Fraud & Tech Scams
At Oshawa Smart Home, we believe the best antivirus is a well-informed user. We don't just secure your devices; we empower you to spot a scam before it starts.
Oshawa Smart Home's "Golden Rules" of Digital Safety
Oshawa Smart Home's "Golden Rules" of Digital Safety
If you encounter any of the following, Stop, Breathe, and Do Not Click.
- The Phone Call Rule: Microsoft, Apple, and your bank will never call you out of the blue to say there is a problem with your computer. If they call, hang up and call the official number on your bank card.
- The Pop-Up Rule: If your screen freezes with a "VIRUS DETECTED" message and a phone number, it is a lie. It’s just a scary website. Use the "Restart Rule" to clear it.
- The "Urgency" Rule: Scammers want you to panic so you don't think clearly. Take your time. Legitimate companies never pressure you to act "right now."
- The Gift Card Rule: No real business or government agency (like the CRA) will ever ask you to pay a bill with Google Play, Amazon, or Apple gift cards. This is 100% a scam.
How Oshawa Smart Home Helps Protect Seniors From Scams
How Oshawa Smart Home Helps Protect Seniors From Scams
When you book a Security & Privacy Check with Oshawa Smart Home, we don't just click buttons; we build your defenses.
- Email Cleanup & Phishing Protection: We help you identify "Phishing" emails (fake emails) and show you how to block them forever.
- Web Browser Security & Ad-Blocking: We install ad-blockers and security extensions that stop those scary "Virus Detected" pop-ups from appearing in the first place.
- Safe & Easy Password Strategies: We help you move away from easy-to-guess passwords to a system that is secure but easy for you to remember.
- The "Second Opinion" Emergency Check: Not sure if an email is real? Call us at (289) 514-5472. We’d rather you call us for a 5-minute check than lose your hard-earned money to a fraudster.
What to Do (Crisis Management)
What to Do (Crisis Management)
- Disconnect From Wi-Fi Immediately: Turn off your computer or disconnect it from the Wi-Fi immediately.
- Call Your Bank or Credit Card Company: If you shared any financial info, your bank needs to know right away to freeze your cards.
- Reset Your Primary Email Passwords: Change the password to your primary email account first.
Call Oshawa Smart Home for a Security Audit: We can perform a Security Audit to ensure no "spyware" was left behind on your devices.
Scam Prevention & Digital Safety FAQs
Scam Prevention & Digital Safety FAQs
1. How can I tell if a computer repair phone call is a scam?
1. How can I tell if a computer repair phone call is a scam?
If someone calls you claiming to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your bank saying your computer has a virus, it is always a scam. Legitimate tech companies will never call you out of the blue to demand access to your screen. Hang up and call a trusted, local Oshawa technician to check your computer safely.
2. Can you check my computer or tablet for malware if I accidentally clicked a suspicious link?
2. Can you check my computer or tablet for malware if I accidentally clicked a suspicious link?
Yes! If you are worried you clicked on a scam link, turn off your device's Wi-Fi and give Oshawa Smart Home a call. We offer in-home Security Audits across Oshawa and Whitby to scan your device, remove hidden spyware, and reset your passwords securely.
3. What is the safest way to store my passwords if I am a senior?
3. What is the safest way to store my passwords if I am a senior?
The safest password is one you don't use for multiple websites! We help seniors create a personalized, secure password strategy. Whether you prefer a secure physical notebook kept hidden in your home, or an easy-to-use digital password manager, we will set up a system that keeps your accounts safe without being confusing.
Our "Safe Exit" Promise
Our "Safe Exit" Promise
We know sharing tech space is a matter of trust. That is why at the end of every security visit, we offer to assist you in changing your passwords one last time while we look away. This ensures that when we leave your home, you are the only person on earth who knows your login details.
Or Call Us at (289) 512-5472
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