Scams that target seniors, and how to foil them
Scammers target seniors because they are often polite, trusting and available by phone. These scams all rely on the same thing: making you act fast, under the pressure of emotion. Knowing them is already a way of protecting yourself.
The most common scams
- The fake bank adviser: they call about a “suspicious transaction” and ask you to approve a transaction or to give a code received by text message. Your bank will never ask you for a code over the phone.
- “Mum, I’ve changed my number”: a message claims to come from a child or grandchild who has lost their phone, then asks for money urgently.
- The fake parcel or fake fine: a text message asks you to pay a small amount for a delivery or a fine, through a link. The link steals your bank details.
- The fake computer support: a message claims your device is infected and gives a number to call, or a person asks to take control of your computer.
- Insistent cold calling: renovation, energy, “guaranteed” investments. An offer that is too good and in a hurry is almost always a scam.
- The fake agent at your door: they present themselves for the water, the gas or the police. A real agent always accepts that you check before letting them in.
The right reflexes
- Never give a code received by text message, nor your logins, nor your card number, to anyone.
- Hang up and call back the usual number yourself (the bank’s number printed on the card, your child’s number saved in the phone).
- Do not click on a link received by text message or in a message: go through the usual app or website.
- Take your time: urgency is the scammer’s weapon. Nothing has to be decided within the minute.
- Talk about it to a relative before paying anything.
If you have been caught out
- Call your bank right away to block your card or your account.
- Change the passwords concerned.
- File a complaint with the police, and keep the messages as evidence.
- Report the fraudulent messages and calls to the authorities of your country: many countries have a dedicated service for reporting scams. Find out today which one it is.
There is nothing shameful about being the victim of a scam: these scammers are professionals. Talking about it also protects others.
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