Elderly scams are on the rise. Protecting vulnerable older populations requires education, security, monitoring, and connection. Learn more from Raleigh-area senior care expert, Irene Brooks.

In this era of rapidly evolving technology, it’s critical to take proactive steps that will prevent elderly scams online. Cyber crime targeting our golden generation has skyrocketed in recent years:

“According to the FBI’s latest Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) data, there have already been $1.6 billion in [elder fraud] losses from January to May of 2024, up nearly $300 million from the same time period last year. In 2023, a total of $3.4 billion losses were reported, and elder fraud complaints increased by 14% from the year prior.” –FBI

We can prevent these attacks by ensuring that our older generations stay informed, protected, and connected.

Understanding elder scams and cyber crime among senior citizens

Why are the elderly often the victims in these crimes? Because they often have limited familiarity with digital technologies and online security practices, and are less aware of common threats like phishing scams and malware than younger generations.

Seniors are more likely to bank or shop online without security precautions, making it simpler for cyber criminals to get their sensitive information, or trick them into transferring money.

And older adults sometimes have more assets, making them more appealing targets.

The devastating impact of cyber crime

Being a victim of a cyber crime is serious, often with long-lasting impact. Victims may lose substantial amounts of money, and also feel traumatized by the breach of trust. Shame, embarrassment, and anxiety can linger and negatively affect their lives and relationships.

The recovery process from such scams can be very difficult, and time-consuming. Legal battles, can be especially challenging and stressful for older adults.

Common online scams targeting seniors

 - Cyber criminals employ a variety of tactics to exploit our older populations. A few of the most common:

Phishing scams involve deceptive emails or messages designed to appear legitimate, tricking seniors into divulging personal information or clicking on harmful links.

 - Tech support scams see perpetrators posing as helpful technicians, claiming to detect computer issues and persuading seniors to pay for unnecessary repairs or granting remote access to steal data.

 - Grandparent scams exploit emotions by impersonating distressed grandchildren in need of urgent financial aid, prompting seniors to wire money or disclose financial details.

 - Romance scams involve creating fake online relationships to gain seniors' trust, ultimately requesting money or personal information under false pretenses.

Internet Safety for Seniors: What you can do

You can help to reduce the elderly scam risk for your loved ones by following these steps:

1. Educate: Teach seniors about common online scams and how to identify suspicious emails, messages, or websites. Encourage skepticism towards unsolicited requests for money or personal information.
2. Secure Devices: Ensure their devices (computers, smartphones, tablets) have updated antivirus software and security patches. Enable two-factor authentication where possible.
3. Limit Personal Information: Advise seniors to be cautious about sharing personal or financial information online, especially on social media and unfamiliar websites.
4. Monitor Accounts: Regularly check bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. Set up account alerts for unusual activity.
5. Use Strong Passwords: Help them create strong, unique passwords for each online account. Consider using a reputable password manager to securely store passwords.
6. Stay Connected: Combat social isolation by encouraging regular communication with family and friends. This can reduce vulnerability to loneliness-driven scams.

For more information on protecting seniors against elderly scams, visit:

FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): www.ic3.gov

Federal Trade Commission (FTC): www.ftc.gov

AARP Fraud Watch Network: 1-877-908-3360



And if you feel an aging loved one could benefit from companion or other in-home care, please give Irene a call at No Place Like Home Senior Services: 919-762-0035. The consultation is free; the peace of mind is invaluable.