Securing the device of an elderly relative ensures their online safety.
Securing the device of an elderly relative ensures their online safety.
Usually, I configure an antivirus with a password for my parents. If you really need extra protection and their computer is mainly used for simple tasks, I recommend enabling the Windows Firewall with default settings or even placing it on the router itself. You can add rules manually for outgoing connections like HTTP 8080, etc., which might take some time if you're not familiar with networking, but it’s the most effective method to secure the system completely. Also, turn off UPnP on the router to prevent unauthorized software from gaining access through the NAT. Besides that, install reliable security software such as Sophos Home—free and manageable remotely. Another option is to use remote access tools so you can connect manually, assign obscure ports, and maintain control over incoming and outgoing traffic. Setting up a VPN server at home and using a VPN client on their machine is another solid choice; it lets you enforce strict rules and keep connections secure. The simplest yet most debated solution is creating an administrator account for the machine they don’t have access to, or switching to Linux with custom user accounts and permissions, keeping only the root password. (Bonus note) Many scammers rely on scripts, so if you follow these steps, they’ll likely struggle—especially those skilled at higher-level helpdesk tasks. It’s a great way to boost security without spending money.)
I manage my parents' or children's computers by creating a secondary account with restricted permissions. Typically, I set up Windows Enterprise for greater oversight. I install standard browsers equipped with ad-blockers and anti-malware tools, activating Windows Defender (Windows 10) or another third-party antivirus based on the user's needs. Personalizing ad-blocking effectively blocks around 99% of Chrome pop-ups; also, enabling incognito mode helps. You might be surprised by what your grandparents do during their downtime—consider setting up a basic user account with limited control so they can't modify settings or remove extensions. Restricting access prevents them from installing new browsers, forcing them to use Chrome. For additional support, a remote desktop solution is useful; I personally use a custom-built RAT as it avoids relying on external servers and often offers lower latency. A VPN isn’t essential here and would add unnecessary costs. The methods discussed are mostly free.