Around Christmas, fraudsters exploit the increase in online shopping, holiday discounts, and charity appeals, aiming to catch people off guard amid the festive spirit. Elderly individuals, who may be more trusting, less familiar with technology, or feeling particularly isolated during the holidays, can be at greater risk of falling victim to these scams.
While scams can be both emotionally and financially devastating, proactive steps can help keep elderly loved ones safe year-round. Here are effective ways to help protect them:
- Stay Informed Together
Regular conversations about common scams can make a big difference. Talk about schemes like fake prize notifications, tech support scams, “IRS” calls, and phishing attempts. Around Christmas, be aware of holiday-specific scams, such as fake charity requests or holiday sales that request personal information. Knowing what to look for can help them identify red flags right away. Encourage them to check in with you if they receive a suspicious message or offer. - Enable Caller ID and Use Call Blocking
Many scams start with unsolicited phone calls. Make sure they have caller ID enabled and consider adding a call-blocking service to reduce risky calls. Remind them that legitimate companies and government agencies will never ask for personal information over the phone, and it’s okay to ignore unfamiliar numbers. - Teach Safe Email and Internet Practices
Show them how to spot phishing emails by looking for unusual email addresses, misspellings, and suspicious links. Explain that they should avoid clicking on any link or attachment from an unknown source. Reinforce that banks, government agencies, and legitimate companies will not ask for personal or financial information through email. - Establish Secure Financial Habits
Set up direct deposit, online bill pay, and paperless statements to reduce physical mail, which can be stolen or tampered with. Additionally, set up bank alerts for unusual transactions, and encourage a “check with family first” rule for any financial decisions that seem urgent or too good to be true. Credit monitoring services can also help detect any misuse of their identity or credit. - Encourage Social Interaction and Community Connections
Scammers often target individuals who seem isolated or lack a support system. Encourage seniors to stay active in social circles, whether through friends, family, or community groups. This helps them feel more connected, reducing the chance they’ll fall for scams that prey on loneliness. - Establish a Supportive Environment for Reporting Scams
Many seniors may feel embarrassed if they’ve been targeted or fallen for a scam. Encourage open communication and reassure them that scams are designed to fool anyone. A non-judgmental environment makes it easier for them to speak up if they’re unsure or if something doesn’t feel right. - Report Scams and Seek Support if Needed
If you or your loved one has encountered a scam or fallen victim, don’t hesitate to seek help. You can report the scam and get advice by calling Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040. Their lines are open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 8 pm. Talking to professionals can provide guidance, help prevent future scams, and assist in recovering from any financial or emotional impact.
By staying vigilant and building awareness, you’re creating a stronger support system for your loved one, helping protect their finances, independence, and peace of mind throughout the year and especially during the holiday season.