Online scams are growing fast in the United States, and sadly, elderly people are among the most targeted. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reports that older Americans lost approximately $700 million to online scams in 2024 alone. That is much higher than the 542 million lost in 2023.
Scammers often go after seniors because they can be more trusting, may not be aware of the latest online threats, and often have savings or valuable assets. But the good news is that you can protect yourself and your loved ones by learning what to watch out for and how to respond.
Why the Elderly Are a Common Target for Scammers
Older adults are often targeted because they might not be used to the latest technology or online tricks. Many seniors, who have worked their entire lives and accumulated savings, make them an attractive target for criminals. Some also live alone, which can make them more vulnerable to scams that play on emotions like fear or loneliness.
Common scams aimed at the elderly include fake calls from government agencies, tech support scams claiming a computer has a virus, romance scams where the scammer pretends to be in love, and prize scams that say you have won money but must pay fees to claim it.
How to Avoid Online Scams
Whether you’re a senior or helping protect a loved one, these tips can help keep you safe:
Verify Before You Trust
If you get a call, text, or email asking for personal or financial details, always double-check who you are speaking to. Real companies and government agencies will not ask for sensitive information out of the blue or pressure you to act quickly. When in doubt, hang up or ignore the message and check for yourself.
Use Official Contact Information
Never trust phone numbers, links, or email addresses given to you in a suspicious message. If you think the contact might be real, look up the company or agency’s official website or phone number and reach out through that instead.
Be Wary of Urgent Requests
Scammers know that fear makes people act without thinking. They might say there is a problem with your bank account or that you owe money to the IRS. Before doing anything, take a moment to calm down. Speak to a trusted family member or friend and confirm the situation.
Enable Security Features
Adding extra layers of protection can make it harder for scammers to get into your accounts. Use two-factor authentication when possible. Keep your computer, phone, and software up to date with the latest security updates. Using antivirus programs can also help detect harmful files or websites.
Protect Your Details
Never share important information like your Social Security number, banking details, or passwords with anyone unless you are sure who they are and why they need it. Avoid entering this information on websites you do not recognize or trust.
Talk About Scams Openly
Many people, especially seniors, feel embarrassed after falling for a scam. But staying silent allows scammers to keep working. If you or someone you know has been targeted, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Sharing your story can help others avoid the same trap.
Special Tips for Helping Elderly Loved Ones
If you have elderly parents, grandparents, or neighbors, talk to them regularly about scam warnings. Help them set up spam filters on their email, block suspicious numbers on their phone, and install updates on their devices. You can also set up fraud alerts on their bank accounts to catch unusual activity early.
Online scams are becoming more common in the U.S., and the elderly are one of the main targets. But knowledge is a powerful shield. By staying alert, checking information before trusting it, and talking openly about scams, we can protect ourselves and those we care about.
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Taking a little time to verify things today can save you from losing your hard-earned money tomorrow.
