Scammers are increasingly targeting seniors, taking advantage of loneliness, lack of internet experience, and, in some cases, memory-related challenges. Family members and senior home care can play an important role in protecting seniors from fraudulent scams by providing them with support and education on how to keep themselves safe.

Education Is Key

Family members should begin by teaching their loved ones about common scams, particularly those that target their age group. Some common scams include:

Medicare and Health Insurance Fraud: Scammers pose as Medicare officials and want personal information.

Phishing Emails and Tech Support Scams: Seniors may receive emails, pop-ups, or phone calls claiming a problem with their equipment and offering phony “support” for a price.

Grandparent Scams: Scammers pretend to be a distressed grandchild and urgently request money.

Lottery or Sweepstakes Scams: These letters inform seniors that they have won a reward and must send a payment for “processing fees.”

It’s important that loved ones explain these scams in clear, straightforward language with examples to help seniors understand what to look out for. This can also be backed up by senior home care through general communication they have with seniors.

Encourage Safe Communication Habits

Speaking of communication, seniors should be encouraged to adhere to these fundamental guidelines when chatting online or over the phone:

  • Seniors should only disclose personal or financial information over the phone or by email if they initiated the conversation or know the other party’s identity.
  • Seniors should be wary about unknown numbers, as scammers frequently “spoof” phone numbers to make them appear familiar or local. Also, encourage seniors to use voice mail, as most scammers will not use a message.
  • Seniors should be reminded not to click on strange links since emails or messages from unknown senders may include attachments or links that are frequently used to collect information or install malware.

Establish Financial Safeguards

Helping seniors create financial safeguards can be one of the most effective defenses against scammers. Here are some important things family members should consider:

  • Enable transaction alerts to ensure that any odd spending prompts a notification.
  • Talk to seniors about allowing a trusted family member to help monitor their accounts.
  • Encourage seniors to use strong passwords and two-factor authentication for critical accounts.

Encourage Cybersecurity Measures

Online safety procedures are important, especially as scammers become increasingly skilled in digital settings. Some of the things that family members and seniors can be mindful of include the following:

  • Keep Devices and Software Updated: Many scams are based on outdated security. Family members can set devices to update automatically.
  • Use Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software: These programs help to identify potential risks.
  • Be Mindful of Privacy Settings: Family members can review social media privacy settings with seniors to ensure they’re strong enough. Scammers frequently search social media for personal information that they might use to impersonate as friends or family.

Foster Open Communication

It’s important to let seniors know that scams are common and that it’s acceptable to discuss any questionable experiences they have. Unfortunately, many seniors may hesitate to speak up if they are embarrassed about being approached by a scammer. Both loved ones and senior home care can reassure them that scammers target people of all ages, which can make them feel more comfortable discussing their experience and concerns.

Protecting seniors from scams requires a proactive approach that includes education, security measures, and emotional support. With loved ones and senior home care by their side, they can be encouraged to take steps to protect themselves.

Sources:
https://nypost.com/2023/11/13/tech/how-to-help-older-relatives-steer-clear-of-internet-scams/
https://www.ncoa.org/article/22-tips-for-seniors-to-avoid-scams/
https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/fraud/fraud-mitigation/helping-your-elderly-and-vulnerable-loved-ones-avoid-the-scammers

If you or an aging loved one are considering senior home care in Brooklyn Park, MN and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.