Technology has made it easier than ever to keep in touch with family and friends. No matter where you are in the world, as long as there’s internet access, you have access to loved ones. Unfortunately, the same goes for scammers. As technology advances, scams targeting the elderly become more sophisticated. Helping older adults understand how to stay safe online is the responsibility of those who can. Here are some trends and scams to watch out for, and tips to help your parents protect themselves.
1. Social Media Scams
Social media platforms are a goldmine for scammers. Advancements in AI have made it easier for scammers to imitate real people. They create fake profiles to pose as friends, relatives, or trusted companies, then lure victims into revealing personal information. Remind your parents that if someone contacts them on social media asking for money or sensitive details, they should always double-check. That could mean calling a known number or asking for verification through another channel.
2. Screening Phone Calls
Phone scams are still one of the most effective methods for con artists. Whether it’s a fake IRS agent or a “bank” asking for account verification, scammers use high-pressure tactics to trick seniors. Encourage your parents to avoid answering unknown numbers and let unknown numbers go to voicemail. If a call claims to be from a bank or government agency, they should hang up and call the organization directly using the official number found on its website.
3. Email Filtering and Caution
Scammers often target seniors through phishing emails, disguised as legitimate communications from familiar companies or even friends. Set up strong spam filters on your parents’ email accounts and encourage them to avoid clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources. Warn them about common email scams such as fake invoices or receipts, which might prompt them to click harmful links.
4. Recognize Common Scams
The repetition of certain scams can create a false sense of familiarity, tricking seniors into believing the scam is real. Some scams to watch for include:
Fake Bank Calls: Scammers posing as bank representatives call, urging victims to verify their account. Always advise calling the bank directly using the number on the official website, not the one provided in the call.
Phony Invoices or Receipts: These may appear in emails, looking official and asking for immediate payment. Don’t click on any links—verify directly with the company.
Investment Scams: Freebies or investment opportunities offering too-good-to-be-true returns should always raise red flags. Never provide personal details like birthdate or address.
5. Be Skeptical About Information Requests
Scammers often pose as trusted sources, such as charities, utility companies, or even tech support. They’ll request sensitive information like Social Security numbers, addresses, or birthdates. Encourage your parents to remain cautious and never provide such details to unsolicited requests. Legitimate companies won’t ask for personal information through random calls or emails.
6. Government Communications are Official
Let your parents know that government agencies like the IRS, Social Security, and Medicare do not ask for information via email or phone calls. They communicate by mail. Any call or email claiming to be from a government agency should be treated with suspicion.
Helpful Resources to Report Scams
If your parents encounter a scam, encourage them to report it. Here are some key places to file a complaint:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Department of Justice Elder Fraud Hotline
Call 1-833-FRAUD-11 or visit the DOJ website
FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
At Zamora Hillman & Villavicencio Attorneys at Law, we are committed to protecting the elderly from fraud and exploitation. If you want to learn more ways you can legally protect your loved ones, contact us today at (305) 285-0285 for guidance. We are here to help.
Zamora, Hillman & Villavicencio
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