In the eyes of con artists, the Internet and World Wide Web are just more tools in their bag of deceits to separate people from their money and personal information. Because nothing is sacred to thieves, the people often most susceptible to technological chicanery have been seniors. Their relative inexperience with technology combined with a perceived vulnerability make them prime targets.

As was emphasized during the recent TRIAD Conference, this group of people was recognized as “valuable, but vulnerable,” and merits particular consideration for protection. Thankfully, that’s partly why there’s the local SALT Council, which stands for Seniors and Law Enforcement Together.

Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring graciously took time to speak at the conference. In his view, TRIAD has also proven its worth over the years. He added that grants will soon become available to aid in the battle against crime.

We noted that the Windsor AARP Chapter 5309 was present at the event, and hope that more people will consider joining because there can be strength in numbers.

Meanwhile, county residents of all ages should:

• Regularly take the time to create new passwords for all online accounts.

• Shred paper statements from banks or other accounts before throwing them into the trash.

• Delete suspicious-looking emails. You can often — though not always — tell by misspellings or nonsensical wording in the subject lines.

• Report to law enforcement officials when people call claiming to be government agencies or even private businesses asking for money or personal account information. Immediately ask for the caller’s name and number and say that you’ll call back after speaking to attorney or trusted family member. We bet they’ll hang up first.