A Senior’s Guide to the Internet in Fort Worth

Sep 4, 2025 | Senior Activities & Engagement

How to Save on Internet and Stay Safe Online

The internet has become essential for daily life, from staying in touch with family to paying bills and streaming TV shows. But in Fort Worth, where costs can feel like they’re always rising, it’s especially important for seniors to know how to keep expenses manageable—and stay protected from online risks.

This guide will walk you through smart ways to save on internet services while giving you practical safety tips to keep your online experience worry-free.

Saving on Internet Services

1. Look Into Senior Discounts and Assistance Programs

If you’re on a fixed income, every dollar counts. Thankfully, there are programs designed to help:

Lifeline Program – A federal program that reduces monthly phone or internet bills for qualified households ¹.
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) – Helps eligible homes get a discount on internet service and even a device².
Provider Options – Companies like AT&T, which has a large presence in Texas, sometimes offer discounted senior-friendly internet packages.

Always ask your provider directly—even if discounts aren’t advertised, they may be available.

2. Shop and Negotiate

Fort Worth residents often have multiple providers to choose from. Use that to your advantage. If another company has a better deal, let your provider know. Customers have reported saving $20–$30 per month simply by calling and asking for a loyalty discount.

3. Choose the Speed That Matches Your Needs

Not everyone needs lightning-fast internet. For most seniors:

Email & browsing → 25–50 Mbps
Streaming video → 50–100 Mbps
Multi-user households → 100+ Mbps

Anything beyond that is usually unnecessary and just adds to the bill.

4. Watch Out for Bundles

“Triple-play” packages (TV, phone, internet) might look like a deal, but often you’re paying for services you don’t use. Many seniors in Fort Worth have ditched cable for streaming options and saved significantly.

Staying Safe Online

1. Spot Scams Before They Spot You

Fort Worth seniors are just as likely as anyone else to receive scam emails and calls. Watch for:

Emails demanding urgent action (“Your account will be locked!”).
Pop-ups warning of fake “viruses.”
Strangers asking for money online.

If something feels off, it probably is. Call the company directly instead of clicking links³.

2. Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication

Simple passwords are risky. Use unique, strong ones for each account. A password manager can help. Enabling two-factor authentication (a code sent to your phone or email) gives you extra protection⁴.

3. Update and Secure Your Devices

Make sure your computer, tablet, or smartphone is running the latest updates. This closes security gaps. And avoid using public Wi-Fi for banking or sensitive accounts unless you’re using a secure VPN⁵.