Internet Scams Targeting Seniors
How to Protect Yourself
There are many different scams out there specifically targeting seniors. They are designed to put you under a great dela of pressure, or act very friendly and want to help you, both are dangerous.
Her are what just a few of them look like.
• They will ask or demand personal information such as the following.
• Computer/phone passwords.
• Credit Card information like your pin # and the date of expiry, your 3 or 4 digit code on the back of the card.
• They might as for personal information like your address, phone #, where you bank. Your Passport, # Drivers licence # or your Social Insurance #.
• They might try and leverage a family member by saying they are over due on rent or are in jail and need money for bail, They might say that they have some sort of unpaid bill and its important it’s paid right away. They might say they can help you by sending someone to your home to collect the money. It’s important to note this is not how Government agencies collect payment ie: Hospitals, The Courts or Police. Or most professional companies.
Its very important to remember the more pressure they apply regardless of how nice or how nasty they are, the more likely it is a scam. Just hang up the phone and if you are confused or unsure then just call a trusted family member, or the police non emergency line 403 266-1234 or The Canadian Anti Fraud Center
1888 495 8501 they will be there to help you. Never give out any personal information. Avoid opening your door to strangers if they won’t go away call 911 or someone you trust.
However please remember this…
IF IT HAS TO BE NOW THE ANSWER HAS TO BE NO.
Top Scams Targeting Seniors
Grandchild/Emergency Scam: Fraudsters pretend to be a grandchild or authority figure claiming an emergency. Always verify the story by calling family members directly.
Tech Support Scam: Criminals pose as tech companies warning you of a virus. Never grant remote access to your computer or click on suspicious links.
Phishing & Bank Spoofing: Emails or texts appearing to be from your bank. Look for the company's main URL and remember that banks will not ask for sensitive information via email.
Essential Safety HabitsPause Before Clicking: Never click on links in unexpected emails, texts, or social media messages.
Use Strong Passwords: Utilize unique, hard-to-guess passwords or a password manager for different accounts.
Protect Your Devices: Always install software and antivirus updates as soon as they are available.
Get a Second Opinion: Discuss any suspicious requests or financial decisions with a trusted family member, friend, or advisor.
Report a Scam: File reports locally or nationally through the BBB Scam Tracker.
Further Exploration:
Scam Prevention Toolkits
Read the RCMP Seniors Guidebook to Safety and Security for comprehensive advice.View the Canadian Bankers Association Fraud Prevention Toolkit for detailed online safety measures.If you or a loved one have been targeted, could you tell me what type of scam or message you recently received (e.g., text, email, or phone call)?
Useful Links:
https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker
https://rcmp.ca/en/relationship-violence/seniors-guidebook-safety-and-security