S205: Digital and Identity Safety with Brandon Kennelly

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: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
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