Anyone interested in avoiding scams on the Internet may be interested in an educational series hosted by Ponoka Jubilee Library.
The first of three classes was held Thursday, Jan. 15 by Sharon MacPherson, a community volunteer advocating knowledge of the Internet. Her first class was called Keep Yourself Safe on the Internet. MacPherson says the first lesson was geared to folks who are unfamiliar with how the Internet works.
She advises doing some research before getting a new computer. “The first step when you’re buying a computer: talk to people you know.”
Tools that help protect someone from spyware or adware programs - software that gets into a computer system - are needed. MacPherson recommends use of anti-virus software and even encryption systems.
“You stay away from any website where you have to put in your username or password unless you have encryption software,” she explained.
Encryption systems make it difficult for people or software from a hacker computer to see important data.
This can also help prevent issues with ransomware, programs that block important documents unless a person pays a fee to clear them. MacPherson suggests most seniors are prone to these problems as they have little experience with computer equipment as well as little understanding of how the Internet works.
“I think it’s absolutely imperative for seniors going online for the first time to protect themselves,” she stated.
MacPherson is hosting two other classes at the library: Keep Your Kids Safe on the Internet on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 6 p.m. and Setting up a Facebook Account for Jan. 29, also at 6 p.m.