Protecting the elderly from scams: Scammers target older adults for many reasons, including trust, social isolation and lack of familiarity with new technology. The emotional and financial impact of fraud can be devastating. With patience, empathy and practical steps, you can help protect a loved one while preserving their independence.
Protecting the elderly from scams: Common scams aimed at older people
Scammers use many methods. The most frequent include:
- Phone scams — callers pose as a bank, utility, TV licence officer or a family member in trouble, and use urgency to pressure the victim.
- Email and text scams (phishing) — messages that look authentic ask recipients to click links or share bank and personal details.
- Investment and pension fraud — too good to be true offers, fake pension transfers or pressured financial schemes.
- Romance scams — criminals build trust online and then ask for money.
- Doorstep scams — people offer bogus services or goods, often asking for payment up front.
- Lottery and prize scams — victims are told they have won, but must pay a “fee” or provide bank details first.
Signs someone may have been targeted
Fraud is often hidden out of a sense of shame or embarrassment. Watch for changes such as:
- Unexplained withdrawals or transfers from bank accounts
- Bills left unpaid despite funds being available
- Sudden secrecy about phone calls, emails or finances
- An online or new off line “friend” who asks for money
- Excess junk mail about prizes or investments
- Missing cash or possessions
If you spot any of these signs, approach the subject gently and without blame.
How to talk about scams with care
Talking about fraud can feel awkward. Use these gentle approaches:
- Start with empathy: “There are so many clever scams right now, anyone could be caught.”
- Use “we” language: “Let’s check your bank messages together.”
- Avoid shame: reassure them that being targeted is common and not their fault.
- Keep it practical: show them examples and simple steps to stay safe.
Offer to help rather than take control, unless they want you to act on their behalf.
Protecting the elderly from scams: Practical steps to reduce risk
Take straightforward actions that make scams harder to succeed:
- Register with the Telephone Preference Service to cut cold calls.
- Use a call blocker or phone settings to screen unknown numbers.
- Set up email filters and install up to date security software.
- Review bank statements together on a regular basis.
- Never share personal or financial information by phone or email unless the contact is verified.
- Keep important documents in a secure place and shred sensitive papers.
- Encourage skepticism about “urgent” requests for money or personal details.
- Teach how to spot phishing, for example suspicious links, poor grammar or requests for passwords.
- Report suspected fraud to Action Fraud and the bank promptly. Early action may help recover funds.
Practical protections banks can offer
Many banks provide additional protections for vulnerable customers, such as nominated contact schemes and extra verification measures. Encourage your loved one to speak to their bank, or offer to accompany them, to set up these safeguards.
How Live In Solutions can help
At Live In Solutions, we support safety and wellbeing in the home. Our carers offer more than practical help. They provide companionship and a trusted presence that can help spot changes in behaviour. Carers can:
- Keep an eye on daily financial behaviors and alert family if something looks wrong
- Help review incoming mail and suspicious communications
- Assist with practical tasks, such as online security checks and setting up call screening
- Offer reassurance and accompany the person to the bank or GP if needed
Our goal is to protect dignity and independence, while giving families peace of mind.
If a scam has happened
If you suspect fraud has occurred:
- Contact the bank immediately to freeze or monitor accounts.
- Report the crime to Action Fraud online or by phone.
- Preserve evidence, including emails, texts and receipts.
- Consider contacting your local police if the scam involved a doorstep call or physical contact.
- Seek emotional support, as victims often feel distressed and embarrassed.
Final thought
Preventing scams is about building awareness, creating simple safeguards and keeping lines of communication open. A calm, non judgemental approach helps protect the people we love while preserving their independence.
If you would like support to protect a loved one, or if you need someone to check in and help spot worrying signs, call on 01245 890336 or visit our website to book a free assessment. We are here to help.