Online scams have become more common in recent years, and unfortunately, many of them are designed specifically to target seniors. These scams often look convincing, feel urgent, and can catch anyone off guard. But with a little awareness and a few simple habits, you can stay safe, protect your personal information, and use technology with confidence.
Here is a practical guide to recognizing and avoiding the most common online scams that target older adults.
Be Careful With Unexpected Emails or Messages
Scammers often send emails or text messages pretending to be banks, government agencies, or familiar companies.
Red flags include
- Messages asking you to “verify” personal information
- Emails with poor spelling or unusual grammar
- Links that look suspicious or unfamiliar
- Offers that sound too good to be true
If a message feels off, delete it or contact the company directly through a verified phone number.
Never Give Out Personal Information Online
Legitimate organizations will never ask you to share sensitive information through email or text.
Do not share
- Social Security number
- Banking information
- Passwords
- Medicare or insurance numbers
Keep this information private unless you are speaking to a trusted representative on a secure, verified website.
Watch Out for Fake Tech Support
Tech-support scams are one of the most common scams affecting seniors.
Warning signs
- A pop-up claiming your computer is infected
- A caller saying they are from Microsoft, Apple, or “Windows Support”
- Requests to access your computer remotely
- Demands for payment to “fix” a computer problem
Hang up immediately and never give remote access unless you initiated the call to a trusted company.
Be Cautious With Online Shopping and Advertisements
Scammers often create fake online shops or ads that appear legitimate.
Protect yourself by
- Ordering only from well-known retailers
- Checking reviews from multiple sources
- Avoiding unrealistically low prices
- Looking for secure payment methods
If the site seems unprofessional or too new, trust your instincts and avoid it.
Verify Charities Before Donating
Scammers often set up fake charity websites, especially during emergencies or natural disasters.
Before donating
- Check the charity on CharityNavigator.org or BBB Wise Giving Alliance
- Visit the official website directly
- Avoid donating through email links
- Be cautious if you feel pressured to donate quickly
Only give through trusted and verified organizations.
Use Strong, Unique Passwords
Weak or reused passwords make it easy for scammers to access personal accounts.
Tips
- Use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols
- Create different passwords for each account
- Consider using a password manager
- Change passwords every few months
Strong passwords keep your information more secure.
Enable Two-Step Verification When Possible
Two-step verification adds an extra layer of security by requiring both a password and a code.
This is especially helpful for
- Email accounts
- Banking and financial sites
- Social media
- Online shopping accounts
It greatly reduces the chances of someone breaking into your accounts.
Be Careful With Online Romance Contacts
Romance scams often target seniors seeking companionship.
Warning signs
- The person avoids video calls or in-person meetings
- They claim to live far away or be traveling
- They ask for money or financial help
- Their stories feel dramatic or inconsistent
If someone online asks for money, it’s almost certainly a scam.
Stay Alert to Medicare and Government Imposters
Government agencies rarely reach out by email or phone unless you contacted them first.
Scams often
- Threaten you with penalties
- Ask for immediate payment
- Request personal information
- Claim your benefits are at risk
Hang up and call the agency using an official number.
Secure Your Devices
Keeping your devices updated helps protect you from malicious software.
Do this regularly
- Update your operating system (Windows, Apple, Android)
- Install reputable antivirus software
- Use strong Wi-Fi passwords
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for financial tasks
Security updates protect your devices from new threats.
Talk With Family or Trusted Friends
If something feels strange or makes you uneasy, ask someone you trust for a second opinion.
It helps to
- Share suspicious messages with family
- Discuss new online contacts
- Ask for help setting up security features
Talking things through can stop a scam before it starts.
Final Thoughts
Staying safe online doesn’t require advanced technical knowledge — just awareness, caution, and a few simple habits. By recognizing common scam tactics, protecting your personal information, and staying in touch with trusted friends or family, you can enjoy the benefits of technology with confidence and peace of mind. With the right steps, staying safe online becomes easier every day.