This is the second time this has happened in the past six months (and it's happened before that too). I've explained to them to not give our personal information willy nilly. How to spot phishing emails. Always check the actual email address. If you're on a website, see the actual URL. Contact the store directly. Don't not reuse passwords. I've set up things to make it easier for them as much as I can.

But I'm feeling so lost now. I lost my temper today. I know I shouldn't have done so. Obviously, they feel bad. We've locked the card and contacted the bank. They'll send a replacement. It's done, for now. But I know their information is out there. Their phone numbers, address, probably even their passwords.

It's like fighting a losing battle, hoping they never make a mistake that'll cost us thousands, if not more.

  • popsickle [none/use name]
    ·
    2 years ago

    That's a good strategy. I don't want to stop them from buying things online, just that they go through legitimate means. Don't fill random surveys. If someone says they'll give you the latest Airpods for 9.99... don't believe them.

    • Mardoniush [she/her]
      ·
      2 years ago

      I find it's particularly hard if the parent grew up in a depression or otherwise economically difficult circumstance. A lifetime of cutting coupons and entering sweepstakes to make ends meet is hard to overcome.

      But if they stop thinking of the internet as Walmart and start thinking of it as a particularly dodgy flea market full of pickpockets and insurance scammers that can help.