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Senior Citizens Targeted by Technology Scams: How to Identify and Protect Against Fraud
AT THE LIBRARY
By Beth Swift, Technology Librarian at WPL
Nov. 20, 2024 11:38 am, Updated: Nov. 25, 2024 10:50 am
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
In today’s digital age, technology has made life more convenient for everyone — including senior citizens. However, it has also opened the door to new forms of scams and fraud, with older adults increasingly becoming targets of malicious individuals using phones, emails, and other digital platforms to exploit them. The most common form of technology scam aimed at seniors is the phony phone call asking for money, but there are many others as well. These scams can be devastating, financially and emotionally, but there are ways to identify them and protect oneself from falling victim.
The Rise of Scams Targeting Seniors
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), older adults are disproportionately targeted by scammers, often because they tend to have savings, good credit, and are less likely to recognize or report suspicious activity. Scammers often use fear, urgency, and the promise of rewards to manipulate victims into giving away money or personal information.
The scams typically start with unsolicited phone calls, but they can also take the form of emails, texts, or even social media messages. Some of the most common scams include:
- Impersonation Scams: Fraudsters pose as government officials, law enforcement officers, or family members. For example, a scammer may call claiming to be a relative in urgent need of money for an emergency, such as a car accident or a legal issue.
- Prize or Sweepstakes Scams: Scammers inform seniors that they’ve won a large sum of money, but in order to claim the prize, they need to pay taxes or fees upfront.
- Tech Support Scams: A scammer pretends to be from a well-known tech company, like Microsoft or Apple, claiming that the senior’s computer has a virus and they need to pay for "repair services."
- Charity Scams: Exploiting a senior's generosity, fraudsters pose as representatives of fake charities, often after disasters or during the holidays, asking for donations.
- IRS or Tax Scams: A common scam involves callers pretending to be from the IRS, threatening arrest or legal action unless the senior sends money immediately to settle supposed unpaid taxes.
How to Identify a Scam
Scammers are experts at manipulating emotions, often using high-pressure tactics to encourage quick action. Seniors can protect themselves by learning how to identify the red flags of a scam:
- Unexpected or Unsolicited Contact: Be cautious if you receive a call, email, or message from someone you weren’t expecting. Scammers often initiate contact out of the blue. Genuine organizations typically don’t reach out to individuals without prior communication.
- Urgency or Threats: Scammers create a sense of urgency to force quick decisions. For example, they may claim that your account will be frozen unless you act immediately, or that a loved one is in danger and needs money right away. Legitimate organizations or family members would not pressure you in this way.
- Requests for Money or Personal Information: Never give out personal information such as bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, or passwords over the phone or online. No legitimate company will ask for sensitive information in an unsolicited call.
- Too Good to Be True Offers: Scammers often promise large sums of money, prizes, or winnings in exchange for a small fee or payment. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
- Vague or Poorly Worded Communications: Pay attention to the quality of the communication. Scammers often use generic language (e.g., "Dear customer") and contain spelling or grammar mistakes. Official organizations generally use more professional language.
- Caller ID Spoofing: Scammers can manipulate the phone number displayed on your caller ID to make it look like the call is coming from a trusted source, such as the government or a family member. If you're unsure, don’t hesitate to hang up and call the person or organization back using a verified phone number.
How to Protect Yourself
Fortunately, there are several ways to protect yourself or a loved one from falling victim to these scams:
- Hang Up and Verify: If you receive an unsolicited phone call asking for money or personal information, hang up immediately. Take a moment to verify the situation by contacting the person or organization directly using a phone number or email address you know is legitimate.
- Do Not Share Personal Information: Never give out personal or financial information over the phone or online unless you initiated the contact and are certain about who you’re speaking with. If you’re unsure, ask for a callback number or ask them to send written information.
- Use Call Blocking Technology: Many phone providers offer call-blocking services or apps that can help filter out unwanted or fraudulent calls. You can also register your number with the National Do Not Call Registry to reduce telemarketing calls.
- Check for Red Flags in Emails: Be cautious of emails with suspicious subject lines, attachments, or links. Hover your mouse over links to see if the URL looks legitimate before clicking. If you suspect an email is a scam, delete it or report it as phishing.
- Stay Informed About Common Scams: Regularly check resources like the FTC website, AARP, or your local consumer protection agency to stay updated on the latest scams targeting seniors.
- Involve Trusted Family or Friends: If you are unsure about a communication you’ve received, talk it over with a trusted family member or friend. Scammers often prey on seniors who live alone or are isolated, so it’s important to maintain strong support networks.
- Report Scams: If you or someone you know has been targeted by a scam, report it to the FTC, local authorities, or the relevant organization. Reporting helps authorities track scammers and can prevent others from becoming victims.
While technology can be a valuable tool for seniors (or ANYONE), it’s also essential to be vigilant against scams. By learning how to recognize the warning signs of fraud and following simple steps to protect yourself, you can enjoy the benefits of digital life without falling prey to criminals. It’s important for seniors to trust their instincts and not be afraid to ask for help if something feels off. Protecting yourself from scams is not just about securing your money; it’s about safeguarding your peace of mind and maintaining control over your life.
