Simple explanations of 25 important technology and security terms every senior should know
Showing 25 terms
Software that protects your computer from viruses and malware. It scans files and programs to keep your device safe.
Example: Malwarebytes, Norton, and McAfee are popular antivirus programs.
Short for 'malicious software.' Any software intentionally designed to cause damage to your computer or steal your information.
Example: Viruses, ransomware, and spyware are all types of malware.
A type of malware that attaches itself to files and spreads from one computer to another when you share infected files.
Example: Opening an infected email attachment can spread a virus to your computer.
Fake emails or messages pretending to be from banks, companies, or people you trust, trying to steal your passwords or personal information.
Example: An email claiming to be from your bank asking you to 'verify' your password is likely phishing.
Unwanted junk email sent in bulk. Often advertisements or scam attempts.
Example: Emails about miracle weight loss pills or fake prizes are spam.
A secret word or phrase used to log into accounts. Strong passwords use letters, numbers, and symbols.
Example: Instead of 'password123', use something like 'Sunset@Beach2024!'
A way of scrambling information so only authorized people can read it. It keeps your data private and secure.
Example: When you see 'https://' and a padlock in your browser, your connection is encrypted.
A security system that monitors and controls traffic between your computer and the internet, blocking dangerous connections.
Example: Windows and Mac computers come with built-in firewalls to protect you.
The program you use to access websites on the internet, like Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Edge.
Example: You're using a browser right now to read this!
Small files websites store on your computer to remember your preferences and login information.
Example: Cookies remember items in your shopping cart when you come back to a website.
The web address you type into your browser to visit a website. It starts with 'http://' or 'https://'.
Example: 'www.google.com' is a URL.
Copying files from the internet to your computer, like saving a photo or installing a program.
Example: When you save a PDF document from your email, you're downloading it.
Sending files from your computer to the internet, like attaching a photo to an email.
Example: When you post a photo to Facebook, you're uploading it.
Saving your files on internet servers instead of just on your computer. You can access them from any device.
Example: iCloud, Google Drive, and Dropbox are cloud storage services.
Wireless internet connection. Lets your devices connect to the internet without cables.
Example: Coffee shops and libraries often offer free Wi-Fi.
Malware that locks your files and demands money (ransom) to unlock them. Never pay - contact authorities instead.
Example: Criminals lock your photos and demand payment in gift cards to unlock them.
Malware that secretly watches what you do on your computer and steals your information.
Example: Spyware can record the websites you visit and passwords you type.
Extra security requiring two ways to prove it's you, like a password plus a code sent to your phone.
Example: Your bank sending a text code after you enter your password is 2FA.
Making copies of your important files so you don't lose them if something goes wrong with your computer.
Example: Copying your photos to an external hard drive or cloud storage is backing up.
New versions of software that fix problems and add security. Always install updates when prompted.
Example: Windows Update and iOS updates keep your devices secure.
Dishonest scheme to trick you into giving money or personal information.
Example: Fake phone calls from 'tech support' or 'the IRS' are scams.
Virtual Private Network - makes your internet connection private and secure, especially on public Wi-Fi.
Example: Using a VPN at a coffee shop protects your data from hackers.
The main software that runs your computer, like Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android.
Example: Your iPhone uses iOS as its operating system.
Your personal space on a website or app, protected by a username and password.
Example: Your email account, Facebook account, and bank account are all different accounts.
When hackers break into a company's system and steal customer information like passwords or credit card numbers.
Example: When a store announces customer data was stolen, that's a data breach.
Use strong passwords: Mix letters, numbers, and symbols. Don't use the same password everywhere.
Install antivirus: Good antivirus software protects you from malware and viruses.
Keep updating: Always install updates for your computer, phone, and apps.
Be skeptical: If an email or call seems suspicious, it probably is. Don't click links or share information.