Five Online Scams Every Older Adult Should Know About
The internet has made it easier than ever to stay connected with family, shop from home, manage finances, and access important services. Unfortunately, scammers have also become more sophisticated, finding new ways to trick people into sharing personal information or sending money.
The good news is that most scams have one thing in common—they rely on catching people off guard. By learning how these scams work and knowing what warning signs to look for, you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
Here are five of the most common scams targeting older adults today and what you can do to stay safe.
1. Fake Bank Text Messages
You receive a text message that appears to be from your bank saying there has been suspicious activity on your account. The message asks you to click a link or call a phone number immediately.
Warning Signs
- The message creates a sense of urgency.
- It asks you to click a link.
- It requests your password, PIN, or account information.
- The phone number or website looks slightly different from your bank's official contact information.
What You Should Do
Do not click any links or call the number in the text message.
Instead, use the phone number printed on the back of your debit or credit card or log in through your bank's official website or mobile app to verify whether there is actually a problem.
2. Medicare and Health Insurance Scams
Scammers often pretend to represent Medicare or your health insurance provider. They may call and claim they need to "verify" your Medicare number, offer free medical equipment, or promise new benefits.
Warning Signs
- Unsolicited phone calls.
- Requests for your Medicare number or Social Security number.
- Promises of "free" medical equipment.
- Pressure to act immediately.
What You Should Do
Remember that Medicare generally does not call people unexpectedly asking for personal information.
If you have questions about your coverage, contact Medicare or your healthcare provider using the official phone number you already have.
3. The Grandparent Scam
This scam can be especially emotional.
Someone calls pretending to be your grandchild or another family member. They may say they've been in an accident, arrested, or stranded while traveling and urgently need money.
Sometimes another person joins the call pretending to be a police officer, lawyer, or hospital employee.
Warning Signs
- A request to keep the situation secret.
- Pressure to send money immediately.
- Requests for gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- Emotional stories designed to create panic.
What You Should Do
Take a deep breath before responding.
Hang up and contact your family member directly using a phone number you already know or ask another relative if they've heard anything.
Scammers rely on panic. Taking a few minutes to verify the story can prevent a costly mistake.
4. Fake Delivery Notifications
Many people receive packages from online retailers throughout the year. Scammers know this and send text messages or emails claiming there is a problem delivering your package.
The message usually includes a link asking you to update your address or pay a small delivery fee.
Warning Signs
- Unexpected delivery notifications.
- Requests for payment to release a package.
- Links that do not match the shipping company's official website.
- Poor spelling or unusual grammar.
What You Should Do
Instead of clicking the link, visit the retailer's or shipping company's official website and enter your tracking number there.
If you didn't order anything, simply delete the message.
5. Fake Tech Support Pop-Ups
You're browsing the internet when suddenly your computer displays a large warning saying your device has been infected with a virus.
The message may flash, make loud sounds, or tell you not to shut down your computer. It usually includes a phone number to call for "technical support."
Warning Signs
- Loud alarms or flashing warning messages.
- Claims that your computer is already infected.
- Requests to call a phone number immediately.
- Someone asking to remotely access your computer.
What You Should Do
Do not call the number.
Close your browser if possible. If the message won't close, restart your computer.
If you're still concerned, ask a trusted technology professional to check your device rather than responding to the pop-up.
Simple Rules That Can Help Keep You Safe
Whenever something online feels urgent, unexpected, or too good to be true, pause before taking action.
Remember these simple tips:
- Never share passwords or verification codes with anyone.
- Don't click links in unexpected text messages or emails.
- Verify information by contacting companies directly using their official phone number or website.
- Be cautious of anyone asking for payment with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
- If something doesn't feel right, it's okay to stop and ask someone you trust for help.
Knowledge Is Your Best Defense
Technology offers wonderful opportunities to stay connected with family, manage everyday tasks, and enjoy new experiences. Learning how to recognize common scams allows you to enjoy these benefits with greater confidence.
At New Found Tech Solutions, online safety is one of our most requested workshop topics. We help older adults learn how to recognize scams, protect their personal information, and use technology with confidence.
The more you know, the safer you'll be—and remember, no question is ever too simple when it comes to protecting yourself online.