Advice
Technology has made it easier than ever to connect with loved ones, pay bills, and shop from the comfort of home. Video calls bring families together, online banking saves trips to the branch, and smart devices simplify everyday life.
But along with these conveniences come new risks. Scammers target seniors because they assume older adults may be less familiar with fast-changing technology. The truth is, anyone can be fooled. The good news? With a few simple habits, you can enjoy all the perks of modern technology while keeping your personal information secure.
Common Tech Risks Seniors Face
Tricky emails and texts
Scammers send emails or text messages that look like they come from a bank, a government office, or even a pharmacy. They usually say something like “Your account will be closed unless you act now,” hoping you’ll click a link without thinking.
- Example: A text looks like it’s from your pharmacy, but the link leads to a fake page that asks for your insurance or Social Security number.
Online relationships that aren’t real
Criminals sometimes pose as friends or romantic partners online. They build trust over weeks or even months before asking for money or access to accounts.
- Example 1: A “friend” on social media (who you’ve never met in person) says they’ve lost their job and need help covering rent or bills.
- Example 2: You get a text from a phone number you don’t recognize. They claim to be your grandson who was in a car accident and needs money for hospital bills that you can pay immediately online.
Fake tech support calls and pop-ups
Sometimes a message flashes on your screen warning of a “virus.” Or you may get a call from someone pretending to be from a computer company. They’ll ask you to call a number, pay a fee, or let them take control of your device.
- Example: A pop-up says your computer is locked. When you call the number, the scammer charges hundreds of dollars and secretly installs harmful software.
Bad apps and harmful downloads
Some free apps or links carry hidden software that steals your personal information. These fake programs may look real, but once installed, they can spy on your activity or capture your passwords.
- Example: A “security app” downloaded from an ad isn’t real — it quietly gathers your banking details.
Lost or stolen devices
Losing a phone, tablet, or laptop can be more than just frustrating. If the device isn’t protected with a strong password, whoever finds it can open your accounts, read your emails, or reset your logins.
- Example: A stolen phone gives a thief access to saved banking apps and email, which can then be used to reset other accounts.
Unsafe Wi-Fi and QR codes
Free Wi-Fi at airports or cafés may not be secure. Criminals sometimes set up fake networks to steal information. QR codes — those small square barcodes found on menus, ads, or parking meters — can also be swapped with fakes. Because you don’t see the web address before scanning, it’s easy to fall into a trap.
- Example: A fake QR code on a restaurant table links to a website that steals your credit card details instead of opening the menu.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Messages that feel urgent or threaten to lock your account if you don’t act right away.
- Strangers online who ask for money, gift cards, or personal details.
- Pop-ups or phone calls claiming your computer or phone has a virus and needs repair.
- Apps or programs that seem too good to be true, especially if they’re free from an unknown source.
- A phone, tablet, or laptop that isn’t locked with a PIN or password.
- Free Wi-Fi that doesn’t require a password, or QR codes that look like stickers placed on top of real ones.
Everyday Tips for Staying Safe
- Pause before you click. If you’re not sure about an email or text, call the company directly using a trusted phone number.
- Keep your devices updated. Updates often include fixes that block the latest scams.
- Set up alerts. Banking apps and debit card notifications can let you know right away if something suspicious happens.
- Use strong, unique passwords. Create long passphrases that are easier to remember but harder to guess.
- Turn on two-factor authentication. Many secure websites and apps, like online banking, can text or call you with a code you’ll enter along with your password.
- Secure your devices and Wi-Fi. Use passwords or PINs at home, and don’t use unknown public networks.
Example: Spotting a Scam in Time
Margaret received an email from her granddaughter, who was traveling and in urgent need of money. The message included a link for quick payment. At first, she panicked, but then she remembered that her son had warned her about family emergency scams. Instead of sending money, Margaret called her granddaughter directly. She was safe at home, and the email was quickly exposed as a scam.
By pausing to verify before acting, Margaret avoided losing money and kept her peace of mind.
For Caregivers and Family Members
If you help a loved one with their finances or technology, you can play a key role in prevention:
- Talk openly about scams and share examples you’ve seen.
- Help set up alerts, passwords, and automatic updates.
- Review suspicious emails, texts, or calls together.
- Make sure important accounts have strong protections in place.
Conclusion
Technology offers connection, independence, and convenience at every stage of life. By learning how to spot risks, watching for red flags, and building safe habits, seniors can use technology knowing that they’re safe.
1st Source Bank is here to help. Whether you’re setting up alerts, moving to online banking, or recovering from a suspicious incident, our team is ready to guide you. Read more about how to spot and avoid common scams here.