In this episode of Navigating Life with Vision Loss, host Kim Wardlow continues the safety series with a focus on digital safety and identity protection. Guest Brandon Kennelly from Trenware, Aftersight’s managed service provider, breaks down practical strategies for protecting against phishing scams, spoofed websites, and identity theft. He explains why phishing attacks have risen dramatically, how blind and low-vision users may face unique risks with inaccessible attachments like PDFs, and why a layered defense approach is essential.

The discussion covers accessible security tools such as Windows Defender and Malwarebytes, the importance of password managers and multi-factor authentication, safe practices for online shopping and banking, and precautions when using public Wi-Fi. Brandon also addresses smartphone security, risks with QR codes, voice-activated devices like Alexa, and what to do if your identity or data has been compromised.

Listeners walk away with clear, actionable steps to safeguard their digital lives and keep personal information secure.

Contact Info

Guest: Brandon Kennelly, IT & Security Expert, Trenware

Website: https://trenware.com

Aftersight

Phone: (720) 712-8856

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.aftersight.org

Producer: Jonathan Price

Show Credits

Host: Kim Wardlow

Guest: Brandon Kennelly (Trenware)

Producer: Jonathan Price

Chapter Markers

00:02 — Welcome and Introduction

02:16 — Defining Digital Safety

04:34 — Unique Risks for Blind and Low-Vision Users

06:59 — Spoofed Websites and Verification Tools

08:33 — Practical Steps for Layered Protection

10:55 — Password Managers and Multi-Factor Authentication

12:52 — Risks of Reusing Passwords

15:21 — Online Shopping and Banking Safety

17:42 — Public Wi-Fi and VPN Use

19:51 — Smartphone Security and QR Codes

21:45 — Accessibility of Antivirus Software

24:08 — Securing Voice-Activated Devices

26:25 — Recognizing Identity Theft

27:25 — Responding to a Breach

29:01 — Final Tips and Takeaways