The growing number of internet crimes targeting older adults is mind boggling.
In 2021, more than 92,000 people over the age of 60 reported damage 1.7 billion, according to IC3, The FBI’s Internet Crime Division. This number reflects a 74 percent increase in losses from 2020.
This number tells us some things. They tell us that cheating adults is a multi-billion dollar business for cyber criminals. It also tells us that no matter how bad or obvious the online scams may seem to someone outside the older community, They are working.
However, the power of information. Older adults can protect their hard-earned retirement funds and government benefits by being aware, adopting new behaviors, and placing tools designed to stop scammers on their track. And, when possible, Family, friends and carers can help.
The FBI says more than 281 million has been lost in the confidence fraud and romance scandal.
Top four types of scams targeting seniors: romance scams (trust scams), fake online shopping, fake utility agents and government agent fraud. Here’s how to change the mindset and your daily routine and move away from digital fraud.
5 protections to protect your leisure
- Stop. Do not share. Often phone or internet scams targeting adults carry individual emotional triggers of joy (you won), fear (you owe), or empathy (please help). For example, a fake source might request: “You Of course Send admin fee Immediately To access your sweepstakes win. “Or” You must provide your Social Security number to stop this agency from being penalized. “ FBI and Better Business Bureau fraud experts advise older adults to stop and think before taking any action. Be aware of common phishing scams that include legitimate-looking email messages from banks, federal agencies, or service providers that ask you to “verify” personal information. Rule number one: Never give out any personal information like Social Security number, bank account number, Medicare number, date of birth, virgin name, work history or your address.
- Level up your security. New tools and calls for new behaviors online for changing times. Consider the best adoption Such habitsInstalled McAfee security software, Using strong passwords, including two-factor authentication (2FA), and knowing how to detect phishing and malware scams are fundamental elements of digital literacy. To dive deeper into the best practices of cyber security,Read more.
- Discuss the new scandal. Scammers quickly adapt their strategies to current events, such as epidemics, tax seasons, or economic crises, in order to mentally seduce older adults. If you are an adult, check out Weekly Consumer Alerts from IC3 Or AARP To stay on top of the kind of scams you may face. If you are a relative or caregiver of an elderly adult, be aware, discuss this scam with your loved one and Explore other ways to help
- All charitable research. Elderly adults try to exchange their daily calls, emails or even Facebook messages. It is essential to do your research. Before donating to a charity, you can consult Give.org Or Charity Navigator To verify the request is valid.
- Report all scams and scam attempts. If you are the victim of an online scam or even unsuccessfully targeted, report the incident immediately. Any consumer canOnline scam report On the FBI’s IC3 website. Credit, debit, or bank account fraud should be reported to your bank immediately.
As the seasons change in our lives, so should our behaviors when connecting with people and information through our devices. Cybercriminals target older people because they are Guess They are not as knowledgeable about the scheme or as technically aware as the younger ones. Older adults and their loved ones can work every day to change that narrative. With the right mindset, information and tools, seniors can connect online with confidence and enjoy their golden years without worrying about digital fraud.
