Seniors are increasingly being targeted by scammers due to their perceived vulnerability, trusting nature, and in some cases, lack of digital awareness. These scams can be emotionally devastating and financially draining. Whether it's a phone call, an email, or even a knock at the door, scammers have countless tactics to trick older adults.
Let's check out most common scams targeting seniors and how to stay one step ahead.
1. Grandparent Scam
Scammers try to impersonate a grandchild or relative in trouble, by often saying they’ve been arrested or had an accident and need money urgently.
Red flags:
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“Please don’t tell mom and dad.”
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Requests for wire transfers, prepaid gift cards, or cryptocurrency.
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Background noise and urgency to act fast.
What to do:
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Hang up and call the grandchild or another family member directly.
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Never send money without confirming the story.
3. Tech Support Scams
Pop-ups or unsolicited calls by claiming that there’s a virus on your computer. The scammer offers to "fix" it remotely, then demands payment or installs malware.
Red flags:
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Urgent warnings about viruses.
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Requesting remote access to your computer.
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Asking for credit card or banking information.
What to do:
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Don’t click on pop-ups.
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Only get tech help from trusted local providers or family members.
5. Fake Lottery or Prize Scams
“You’ve won!” But if you want to claim the prize, you must pay a "processing" fee or taxes.
Red flags:
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You didn’t enter the contest.
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You're asked to keep the prize confidential.
What to do:
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Remember: legitimate lotteries never ask for upfront payments.
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Report and delete the message.
2. Phone & Robocall Scams
Scammers create automated or live calls claiming to be from the CRA, IRS, police, or a bank and threaten legal action if money isn’t paid immediately.
Red flags:
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Threats of arrest, lawsuits, or frozen accounts.
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Demands for immediate payment over the phone.
What to do:
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Hang up. Real government agencies will never ask for payment over the phone.
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Register your number on national Do Not Call lists.
4. Romance Scams
Loneliness can make seniors vulnerable to romance scams. Scammers build online relationships and then ask for money under false pretenses.
Red flags:
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Online-only relationship with emotional stories.
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Avoiding video calls or in-person meetings.
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Frequent requests for financial help.
What to do:
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Be skeptical of online-only romances.
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Never send money or share banking details.
6. Home Repair & Utility Scams
A scammer shows up at the door offering cheap repairs or inspections, often targeting seniors living alone.
Red flags:
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“I’m working in the neighborhood.”
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Asking for cash up front.
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Pressuring you to act now.
What to do:
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Always get a second opinion and written quote.
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Never let strangers into your home without ID or verification.
Tips for Protecting Seniors from Scams
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Educate regularly. Discuss common scams with elderly loved ones.
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Limit information shared online. Privacy settings matter.
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Use call blocking tools. Many phones and services offer scam protection features.
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Assign a trusted contact. Someone who can verify suspicious messages or calls.
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Encourage them to pause. Scammers rely on urgency. Taking a moment can save money and stress.
Seniors deserve safety, respect, and peace of mind. Sharing awareness and staying informed is the best defense. If you or someone you know has been targeted, don’t be embarrassed—report it and help others avoid the same trap.
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