Safe and strong: how we can protect our Elders online

Surviving scammers

Elders who grew up without the technology we have today may find it difficult to recognise what’s real and what’s fake when using the internet. Because of this, they may be more likely to fall for scammers online. Common scams include phishing emails, fake charities asking for donations, and tech support scams claiming there’s a problem with their device.

1. Phishing emails: They appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks, telecommunication companies or online services and often have links to fake websites designed to steal personal information like passwords and credit card numbers. Phishing emails might ask you to verify your account details or warn you of suspicious activity. If you suspect that an email might be a phishing scam, don't click on any links. Report the email, mark it as spam and then delete it from your inbox.
2. Fake charities asking for donations: Scammers create fake charities, especially during times of crisis or disaster to exploit people's generosity. They may set up websites or send emails asking for donations, but the money goes directly to the scammers instead of helping those in need. If you know an Elder who is considering donating to a cause, double check that the charity is real to avoid being scammed.
3. Tech support scams: Scammers can pose as tech support agents from well-known companies. They might get in contact by phone or pop-up message, claiming there’s a problem with the phone, computer or tablet. They might ask for remote access to the device or demand payment for unnecessary repairs or software. Real tech companies use official email addresses and websites, provide support when you initiate contact, never ask for uninvited remote access, and don't demand immediate payments.

Understanding these scams, can help you to better protect your Elders from falling victim to these deceptive tactics. Always be cautious and verify the authenticity of any unsolicited contact.

For a closer look at how to protect yourself and your Elders common cyber threats, read our article Top things that you should know about cyber security and safety.

Seeing the signs

Recognising red flags is the best way to avoid being scammed. It means that scams can be identified before they get out of hand and proactive steps can be taken to protect our Elders.

Below, are some of the most common red flags to talk about with your Elders. If they notice anything suspicious, encourage them to double check with a trusted person to make sure they’re not being scammed.

• Urgent requests: Messages that seem overly urgent, for example ‘you need to act immediately to avoid a penalty or to claim a prize’.
• Unknown callers: Receiving unexpected messages, calls or emails from unknown people or companies, especially if they ask for personal information.
• Too good to be true: Offers like winning a lottery you never entered, or getting a deal that’s far below market value.
• Asking for personal details: Requesting your bank or credit card details or passwords.
• Inconsistent information: Things that don’t add up, such as a company name that doesn’t match it's email address or phone number. Check that the company name matches the email address or that the phone number matches the company's official contact details.
• Spelling and grammar errors: Scams often contain noticeable mistakes.
• Pressure to pay in unusual ways: Requests to pay using gift cards or wire transfers, which are harder to trace and recover.
• Threats and alarming statements: Messages that threaten legal action, arrest or other severe consequences if you don’t obey immediately.

Repeated calls from unknown numbers can be distressing. For help with identifying and dealing with unwanted phone calls, see our advice on managing unwelcome calls. It explains the different types of unwanted calls and gives advice on how to prevent, block and report them. 

If it’s too late and you suspect your Elder has already been scammed, ScamWatch has a step-by-step guide on what to do if you’ve been scammed.

Weathering online abuse

Keeping Elders safe online also extends to their emotional safety. On the internet, anyone can say anything including statements that are racist and untrue. This type of content can be especially hurtful and distressing to our Elders who may carry trauma from historic events.

Our tools and tips that can help shield Elders from harmful content online.

• Blocking and filtering: Block any sites and people that are harmful. Use filtering settings on social media to prevent hateful posts and content from showing up in your Elder’s feed.
• Privacy settings: Adjust privacy settings on online profiles to limit who can see and interact with your Elder. Limiting contact to only known and trusted people means your Elder won’t wake up to a hateful comment or message.
• Offering support: Negative posts, stories and comments can be painful and upsetting, especially to our Elders. In some cases, this negativity may bring back bad memories and reopen trauma wounds. We can support our Elders by checking in on them regularly and helping them block and report emotionally damaging content.

Safe and strong

From when we’re young, we’re taught to respect our Elders and value the wisdom and knowledge they possess. Their stories, experiences and teachings are the foundation of our communities. As they have cared for us, it is now our turn to care for them, especially in the digital age.

We have a shared responsibility to help them stay safe online so they can reap the benefits of using the internet without the fear of scams, harassment or emotional distress. By providing them with the tools and support they need, we ensure they can connect with loved ones, access important information and enjoy the many advantages of the digital world with confidence and peace of mind.