Tips and tricks to help navigate the technology minefield 

First things first – when did you last change your passwords?

Weeks ago? Months ago? Years ago? Never? The perennial issue of password management – or lack thereof – symbolises many retirees’ experiences of using technology. Yes, most people love the convenience of managing finances online, or staying connected with family through free video calls, but there is often a nagging sense of dread that we need to be more vigilant to safeguard our money, data and personal information.

Which brings us back to passwords. There are many password-management tools that allow us to update – and remember – the growing number of passwords we need to access banking, government and personal accounts.

From Apple’s iCloud Keychain and Google’s Password Manager to 1Password, NordPass, Keeper and Dashlane, these apps offer an effective way to safeguard information and assets. They store and automatically fill in passwords across a range of devices, while allowing users to maintain unique passwords without having to commit them all to memory (or writing them on a Post-it note for all to see).

For retirees who are not confident with technology, these password managers can really simplify login processes and minimise the risk of exposure to phishing attacks and other cyber scams.

If you think password management is not worth the trouble, just remember that weak or reused passwords can leave retirees (and others) vulnerable to scams and identity theft. According to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s Scamwatch, Australians aged over 65 lost $99.6 million in 2024, with a significant share involving compromised online accounts.

There is no doubt that Australian seniors have become more digitally savvy in recent years, with research from aged care provider Benetas showing that more than 80% of older Australians use technology.

Digital literacy programs in libraries, community centres and courtesy of government resources such as Be Connected also help retirees learn about email, video chatting and online security. Be Connected supports people aged 50 years and over to safely use the internet and digital technology. It features hundreds of free online courses and learning resources on topics such as:  

• using smartphones and tablets
• avoiding scams  
• using email and social media apps  
• engaging in safer internet banking   
• setting up a myGov account.  

There are myriad other ways to stay safe and secure online. For example, if you do not already have antivirus and spam protection software installed on your computer, consider downloading it. There are many providers which offer free versions of their security, such as TotalAV and Avast. Just be aware that some providers of ‘free’ software will impose a charge for their premium products.

When you are travelling, or just out and about, it is also important to use secure wi-fi networks. Using public wi-fi on trains or in cafes to do your online banking is risky, as is any other finance-related action outside the home that involves entering your credit card or banking details.

If possible, use your credit card to pay for things online. Also, look out for the closed padlock symbol in a website’s address bar before entering payment details, as this typically means the information is encrypted.

Think, too, before sharing details and data (such as your address, date of birth and phone number) on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

While the risks of using technology are well known, older Australians should not ignore the financial and lifestyle benefits that smart technology can deliver.

Banking, share market and superannuation apps provide instant access to account balances and transactions, helping retirees monitor their spending and investment status from the comfort of a couch. Digital payment tools such as PayID and tap-and-pay services also reduce the need to carry cash, improving convenience and safety.

Likewise, video-calling platforms such as WhatsApp, Zoom or FaceTime keep retirees in touch with family and friends across Australia or overseas, while wearable health devices can track exercise, sleep and heart health.

Just do your homework before you sign up to these apps and services so you can safely explore the digital world without jeopardising your retirement nest egg.