Kit ยท Windows or Mac
How do I set up a safe computer for an older parent?
To set up a safe computer for a parent, use Firefox with uBlock Origin to block scam popups and fake download buttons, save their important sites as big bookmarks, turn on automatic updates, and set up a password manager or a written password book kept at home. Most important, agree on a rule together, never let anyone who calls you control the computer, and call me first.
Downloads
- Firefox Independent browser that runs the full uBlock Origin.
- Bitwarden Free password manager, unlimited devices.
- Zoom Meetings standard. Free group calls stop at 40 minutes.
- VLC media player Plays almost any video or audio file, no extra codecs needed.
Direct from each developer.
Step by step
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Block scam popups before anything else
Firefox with uBlock Origin blocks most fake virus warnings and fake download buttons, the top way older people get scammed.
uBlock Origin report card -
Make the screen easy to read
Windows, Settings, Accessibility, Text size. Mac, System Settings, Display, Larger Text. Set the browser zoom to 125 percent.
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Bookmark their real sites
Bank, email, pharmacy, video calls. Put them on the bookmarks bar so they never search for them and land on a fake ad.
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Automatic updates on
Windows Update and Mac Software Update set to install automatically.
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Agree on the golden rule
Real companies never call to fix your computer. Hang up on anyone who asks to connect to the computer, wants payment in gift cards, or says to keep it secret. Then call family.
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Set a family code word
A word only family knows. If someone calls in a panic sounding like a grandchild, ask for the word. AI can clone voices.