How to Protect the Elderly from Scams
Many people believe they couldn’t possibly fall victim to a scam, but scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their targeting of victims, making them more difficult to spot. The elderly are particularly vulnerable, especially if they are living with memory loss or dementia.
This guide on protecting the elderly from scams offers practical tips to help you identify scams early and safeguard your loved ones from fraud.
Common scams that target the elderly
Elderly people are often targeted by scammers employing a variety of deceptive tactics. Common scams to look out for include:
1. Phone scams
Scammers impersonate officials from banks, government agencies or utility companies, pressuring older adults to provide personal information or make payments. These telephone scams targeting the elderly can lead to identity theft and financial loss.
2. Email and phishing scams
Deceptive emails appear to be from legitimate organisations but are really an attempt to steal personal data or install malware. People often receive messages claiming issues with their accounts, prompting them to click on malicious links.
3. Doorstep scams
Scammers pose as tradespeople or charity workers, offering services or requesting donations under false pretenses. They may pressure the elderly into unnecessary repairs or fraudulent charity contributions.
4. Investment and lottery scams
Scammers entice older adults with promises of high financial returns or lottery winnings but often request upfront payments or personal information. These scams often result in significant financial losses.
5. Tech support scams
Scammers claim to be tech support agents, convincing older adults their computers are compromised and charging fees for unnecessary or non-existent services. This can lead to financial loss and compromised personal information.
6. Grandparent scams
Impersonating a grandchild in distress, scammers urgently request money for emergencies, exploiting a person’s sense of compassion and trust. These scams often involve requests for wire transfers or gift cards.
Elderly romance scams: What to watch for
Elderly romance scams target older adults by building fake emotional connections to manipulate them into sending money or personal information. These scams often happen through dating sites, social media or email and can last for weeks or months before the victim realises the deception.
How they work
- Fake identity – Scammers use stolen photos and false details, often posing as military personnel, doctors or widowers.
- Building trust – They quickly form an emotional bond, showering the victim with affection and promises of love.
- Creating a crisis – Once trust is gained, they claim to need money for medical bills, emergencies, or travel expenses to meet in person.
- Requesting money – They ask for wire transfers, gift cards or cryptocurrency, making it difficult to trace or recover funds.
Warning signs
- A love interest moves quickly, expressing deep feelings without meeting in person.
- They avoid video calls and always have excuses for not meeting.
- Sudden requests for money, often for urgent or emotional reasons.
- Pressure to keep the relationship secret or act quickly.
If you suspect a scam, encourage your loved one to stop communication, avoid sending money and report it to the authorities.
Signs your loved one might be involved with a scam
Scammers often target older adults because they may be more trusting or unfamiliar with the latest fraud tactics. If you notice any of the below signs, your loved one may be at risk of being scammed:
- Frequent calls from unknown numbers claiming to be from banks, government agencies or tech support.
- Sudden urgency to act, such as paying a fine, verifying account details or helping a “relative” in distress.
- Unexplained withdrawals or unusual charges on their bank statements.
- Talk about winning the lottery, sweepstakes or an investment opportunity that requires upfront payment.
- Mention of a new online “friend” or “romantic partner” who asks for money or personal information.
- Pop-up warnings on their devices claiming they need urgent action to fix a virus.
- Unfamiliar apps or software installed on their devices.
- Emotional changes such as anxiety, stress or defensiveness about finances.
- Avoiding social activities or withdrawing from family discussions.
How to protect the elderly from being scammed
Scams targeting the elderly are getting more and more sophisticated, and unfortunately, older adults are often their favorite targets. The good news is that a little knowledge and support can go a long way in keeping your loved one safe. Here are some simple, practical ways to help them avoid falling victim to scams:
1. Talk about common scams
One of the best ways to protect your loved one is to keep them informed. Chat with them about common scams—like fake calls from “the bank,” lottery scams or emails that look real but aren’t. Remind them that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Teach them to be cautious with calls & emails
Encourage them to be wary of unexpected phone calls, texts or emails asking for personal information. Scammers often pretend to be from a government agency, a utility company, or even a distressed family member. A simple rule: if they weren’t expecting the call, they don’t have to answer or give out any details.
3. Help set up safety measures
A few simple tools can make a big difference. Help them install a call blocker to filter out scam calls, set up strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication on bank accounts. If they use a computer, make sure their antivirus software is up to date.
4. Keep an eye on financial activity together
Suggest reviewing bank statements with them or setting up alerts for unusual activity. Many scams start with small, unnoticed charges before larger amounts disappear. A quick check-in on their finances can prevent major losses.
5. Create a ‘check first’ rule
Make it a habit for them to run big financial decisions by you or another trusted family member before making payments, donating to charities or wiring money to anyone—even if it seems urgent.
6. Remind them to trust their gut
If something feels off, it probably is. Encourage them to slow down, double-check and talk to you if they ever feel unsure about a request or offer. Scammers rely on pressure tactics, so taking a moment to think can stop a scam in its tracks.
What to do if you have fallen victim to a scam
Although many people feel embarrassed when they realise they have fallen victim to a scam it is important to know that you are not alone. Scammers prey on a person’s sense of trust and people from all walks of life and ages can fall victim.
If you have fallen for a scam, here are some immediate steps you can to protect yourself:
- If you have given away bank details, contact your bank immediately. They can block your accounts and cards right away, often over the phone.
- Change all sensitive passwords.
- Report the scam to the police by dialling 101.
Resources for scam prevention & support
If you or a loved one need help dealing with a scam—or want to stay informed—these resources can provide guidance and support:
Action Fraud
Report fraud or cybercrime 24/7 by calling 0300 123 2040.
You can also register with Action Fraud as a precautionary step. This allows you to report scams quickly if they occur, including cases where someone has taken control of your computer.
Victim Support
For free, confidential support, call 08 08 16 89 111 or send an email here.
Citizens Advice Consumer Service
For advice on potential scams, call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service at 0808 223 1133.
Think Jessica
Think Jessica is a charity focused on raising awareness of scams and protecting vulnerable individuals.
They offer a booklet on common scams for £7.99, which can also be purchased in bulk.
Talk to our team today
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Call our experienced team today on 01293 224706 to discuss your live-in home care needs and receive a free no obligation quotation.
