Avoiding Scams and Phishing
How Seniors Can Avoid Online Scams, Phishing and Fraud
Learn how seniors can recognise common scams, avoid phishing links and respond safely to suspicious messages or calls.
Online scams are designed to create stress and confusion. They often pretend to be banks, government agencies, delivery companies or even family members in trouble. Seniors are often targeted because scammers assume they may be more trusting or less familiar with digital tricks. The good news is that the same warning signs appear again and again.
Common scam types that target seniors
- Phishing emails that ask you to click a link and sign in to a fake website.
- Text messages about unpaid tolls, delivery issues or account problems.
- Phone calls from fake support staff who claim your computer is infected.
- Romance scams, investment scams and impersonation scams that build trust before asking for money.
How phishing usually works
- A message arrives that looks official and urgent.
- It pushes you to click quickly, often with words like “verify”, “confirm” or “pay now”.
- The link leads to a fake page that steals your password or payment details.
Warning signs to watch for
- Unexpected contact asking you to act immediately.
- Spelling mistakes, odd wording or email addresses that do not match the real organisation.
- Requests for passwords, one-time codes, remote computer access, gift cards or bank transfers.
What to do instead of clicking
- Pause and read the message carefully.
- Visit the official website yourself by typing the address into your browser.
- Call the organisation using a phone number from a bill, bank card or official website.
How to handle suspicious phone calls
- If the caller pressures you, hang up.
- Do not install software or give control of your computer to someone who called you unexpectedly.
- If the caller says they are from a bank or government office, call that organisation back using an official number.
Why talking to someone helps
- Scammers often try to isolate people and create secrecy.
- A quick call to a family member or trusted friend can expose the scam immediately.
- There is no shame in double-checking. Caution is a strength, not a weakness.
Need extra support?
Cyber safety is easier when the advice is practical, patient and easy to follow. Live training can help seniors build confidence without feeling overwhelmed.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I clicked a scam link?
Change the password for that account as soon as possible, check for unusual activity and contact your bank if payment details may have been exposed.
Are scam texts always obvious?
No. Many look polished and convincing, which is why it is safer to visit trusted websites directly rather than using links from messages.