Online Scams Targeting Senior Citizens: A Guide to Protecting Your Loved Ones

September 13, 2024

While I was with an elderly client recently, she got a text from what seemed like the US Postal Services telling her that her package couldn’t be delivered because of an incomplete address. She proceeded to fill out the form while I looked on the internet if this was a type of scam. Sure enough, my spidey senses about the text were correct because I found articles online that this was all a scam. Just as I was telling my client about this, the online form was asking for her credit card information to pay for the 23 cent “balance” for the package. I told her not to fill out the form any further and to ignore the text message. I explained how it is all an attempt to steal her credit card information.

In our increasingly digital world, online scams have become more sophisticated and pervasive, posing significant risks to people of all ages. However, senior citizens are particularly vulnerable due to various factors such as limited technological experience, lack of familiarity with online threats, and sometimes a higher degree of trust in others. To help protect our elders, it's crucial to understand the common online scams that target them and to know how to guard against these deceitful schemes.

1. Phishing Scams

Phishing scams involve fraudulent emails, texts, or websites that appear to be from legitimate sources, such as banks or government agencies. The text that my client got is a type of phishing scam. These scams aim to trick individuals into revealing personal information like Social Security numbers, credit card details, or login credentials. Seniors may receive emails claiming their bank account has been compromised or that they need to update their information to avoid penalties.

Protection Tip: Always verify the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unsolicited messages. Contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or website if you have any doubts.

2. Tech Support Scams

In tech support scams, scammers pose as technical support representatives from well-known companies like Microsoft or Apple. They claim that the victim’s computer has a virus or a problem and then offer to fix it remotely. Once they gain access to the computer, they may steal personal information, install malicious software, or demand payment for their "services."

Protection Tip: Reputable tech companies do not initiate unsolicited contact. If you receive a call or pop-up message claiming to be from tech support, hang up and contact the company directly using a trusted phone number or website.

3. Online Dating and Romance Scams

Online dating scams involve scammers creating fake profiles on dating sites to build relationships with seniors, often with the goal of defrauding them. After gaining the victim’s trust, the scammer may fabricate a crisis or request financial assistance, promising to repay or meet in person. This type of scam takes advantage of the elderly who often feel lonely and isolated. I personally know an elderly friend whose life savings were depleted by their online “boyfriend” after she unwittingly trusted him with her bank account information.

Protection Tip: Be cautious about sharing personal information with individuals met online. If someone you’ve just met online asks for money or expresses urgent financial need, it's likely a scam.

4. Lottery and Prize Scams

In these scams, seniors receive notifications claiming they've won a lottery or prize but must pay a fee or provide personal information to claim it. Scammers often use legitimate-looking documents or websites to make their claims seem credible.

Protection Tip: Legitimate lotteries and contests do not ask winners to pay fees upfront. If you receive such a notification, it’s a red flag. Verify the claim through official channels before taking any action.

5. Charity Scams

Scammers exploit the goodwill of seniors by posing as representatives of charitable organizations. They may create fake websites or send convincing emails or letters requesting donations for fake causes, particularly in the wake of natural disasters or crises.

Protection Tip: Before donating, research the charity to ensure it is legitimate. Use established charity evaluators or contact the charity directly through their official website.

6. Investment Scams

These scams promise high returns on investments with little risk. They often involve opportunities in areas like real estate, cryptocurrencies, or precious metals. Seniors may be targeted due to their retirement savings or perceived financial stability.

Protection Tip: Be wary of unsolicited investment offers and too-good-to-be-true promises. Consult with a trusted financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

7. Impersonation Scams

Scammers impersonate family members or friends and claim to be in urgent need of money due to an emergency. They may use phone calls, emails, or social media to create a sense of urgency and pressure the victim into sending money quickly.

Protection Tip: Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be in distress by contacting them directly through a known phone number or other trusted means. Avoid sending money based on emotional appeals alone.

8. Subscription and Service Scams

In these scams, seniors are tricked into signing up for unnecessary or fraudulent services and subscriptions. Scammers may use deceptive tactics, such as offering free trials that automatically convert into paid subscriptions or charging hidden fees.

Protection Tip: Carefully review all terms and conditions before agreeing to any service. Monitor bank statements regularly for unauthorized charges and dispute them promptly.

9. Online Shopping Scams

Fraudulent online retailers offer products at unusually low prices or promote exclusive deals. Once seniors make a purchase, they may receive counterfeit items, nothing at all, or find their financial information misused.

Protection Tip: Shop only from well-known and reputable online stores. Research unfamiliar sites and read reviews before making any purchases.

Awareness and education are key to preventing online scams targeting senior citizens. By understanding these common scams and implementing protective measures, seniors can enjoy the benefits of the internet while safeguarding their personal and financial information. Families should also engage in open discussions about online safety and encourage seniors to be cautious and vigilant in their online activities.