In 2025, everything is now done online and navigating the internet safely is important for everyone. For visually impaired internet users, it’s especially important. Learning about staying safe online for visually impaired people is a great way to use the internet with confidence. Following a few simple steps can help protect your personal data and keep you safe from scams.
Staying Safe Online for Visually Impaired Users
Essential Tips for Staying Safe Online for Visually Impaired Users
It is important to remember these tips when you go online. Always use a strong password for your accounts. A password manager can help with this. Password managers create and store very complex passwords so that you only need to remember one master password to access the password manager. They are often accessible with screen readers. A great example of a popular, accessible password manager is 1Password. It offers features that integrate well with assistive technology, making it easier to manage all your passwords.
Protecting Your Devices
Keeping your devices updated is a very easy way to stay secure, as updates fix known security problems and add new features to keep you safe. Therefore, always say yes to software updates. This includes updates for your phone, computer, and web browser. You can check out our article on iOS 26 Accessibility Features ahead of Apple’s latest update.
The iOS 26 blue and green logo with a blue and green background
Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) is also a very good idea, as it adds an extra layer of security that requires a second step to sign in, such as a code sent to your phone. Most popular services offer this feature. For visually impaired users, authenticator apps that generate these codes are often a great solution. A useful, accessible example of this is Google Authenticator (App Store – Apple, Play Store – Android ) which is also designed to work smoothly with screen readers.
Understanding Common Threats
Online scams are a serious concern, and it is crucial to be aware of them. Phishing scams, for example, try to trick you by using emails or text messages that look official and seem real. You must be very careful with any messages that ask you for personal details. As an example, your bank will never ask for your PIN or password.
How to Identify Scams
Always look for a website’s security symbol, which is a small padlock icon in the address bar, as it shows that the website is secure. This can be found by clicking the “view Page Information” button to the left of the address bar (the two lines with circles). The top option under the website name is the websites security. It should say “Connection is Secure”.
Screenshot of page settings panel with the secure connection padlock at the top
You should also check that the website address begins with “https://,” because the ‘s’ at the end stands for secure. If you have any doubts, close the website immediately.
Never click on links or open attachments from people you do not know. Similarly, be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, because they probably are. Trust your instincts and take your time. Following these steps helps staying safe online.
What to do if You Think You Have Been Scammed
If you think you have been scammed in any way, the first thing to do is protect yourself and your data. You can do this by contacting your bank, changing your passwords, and blocking the scammer’s number or email, or closing the scam website immediately. For more information, visit Citizens Advice.
AI and Staying Safe Online for Visually Impaired Users
With the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and chatbots, new online safety considerations have emerged. While AI can be a powerful tool for good, it can also pose new risks.
Be Cautious with Personal Data
When you’re using AI chatbots or tools, remember not to share sensitive personal information. AI systems learn from the data they are trained on and the information you provide. Avoid entering details like your full name, home address, bank account numbers, or passwords into any AI chat. This is crucial for protecting your privacy and preventing your data from being misused. An easy rule to follow is, never give AI information you wouldn’t leave unattended in a café for anyone to read.
To stop AI learning from the information you give it, you can turn this feature off in your AI’s account setting under “Data Controls” or “Privacy Settings”. If you need extra help with this, contact us at Info@MyVision.org.uk.
Screenshot showing the Data Controls panel on Chat GPT
Beware of Misinformation
AI can sometimes generate false or misleading information, a phenomenon often called “hallucinations.” Always be critical of the information you receive from an AI. Never rely on it for medical, legal, or financial advice. If a piece of information seems questionable, double-check it with a reliable source. You can also use AI to provide links to their source.
The Rise of Sophisticated Scams
AI can make phishing and other scams more believable. It can create well-written emails and messages that are free from the spelling and grammar mistakes that used to be a common sign of a scam. These organised and convincing messages can make it harder to spot a fake. Always stay vigilant and use the tips from the “How to Identify Scams” section, such as checking for the secure padlock icon and being wary of unexpected links.
Staying Safe on Social Media
Privacy settings on social media are important, and for this reason, you should review them often. You can control who sees your posts, and you can also control who can send you messages. Do not accept friend requests from people you do not know and be careful with what you share online. In conclusion, limiting what you share helps protect your identity and improves your online safety.
Image showing social media privacy settings
If this guide was useful, check out our other latest Tech News for visually impaired people.
