Caring for aging family members often means staying on top of health needs, home safety, and day-to-day comforts.

But in our increasingly digital world, there’s another layer to consider: online safety.

With scammers specifically targeting older adults, it’s time to make cybersecurity part of every caregiving plan.


Why seniors are at risk

More seniors than ever are online—74% own smartphones, and nearly 90% use the internet.

But with that digital engagement comes vulnerability. In 2023 alone, Americans over 60 lost $3.4 billion to online scams, up 11% from the previous year.

Fraudsters take advantage of trust and unfamiliarity with newer technologies, making education and awareness critical tools.

Start the conversation early

It can feel uncomfortable to bring up scams with older loved ones.

No one likes to feel gullible or incapable.

But discussing common tactics in a supportive, blame-free way can empower seniors to recognize warning signs.

Focus on the fact that anyone can be targeted—even tech-savvy adults.

Also read: AI is giving scammers a dangerous new edge—especially in grandparent hoaxes

Common scams to watch for:

• Romance scams: Fake online relationships aimed at gaining trust, then money.
• Grandparent scam: A caller pretends to be a grandchild in trouble, urgently requesting cash.
• Phishing/vishing: Emails or phone calls posing as banks, government agencies, or tech support asking for personal info.
• Social media traps: Quizzes, surveys, or friend requests used to collect private data or spread malware.

Also read: 16 billion leaked logins: Could yours be one of them?

What to do if something seems off:

• Don’t answer unknown calls—let them go to voicemail.
• Delete emails from unfamiliar senders, especially with attachments or links.
• Block suspicious text messages.
• On social media, decline requests from strangers and report questionable accounts.

Also read: New phishing scam tricks on the rise–you won’t believe what hackers do to get your information!

Lock down accounts and devices

Passwords are a crucial first defense.

Use a different, strong password for each account—long phrases work well.

Encourage the use of password managers to keep login info safe and organized.

Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on important accounts, especially email and banking.


Also read: He promised love, she lost her home: How a fake romance led to a $1.5M scam targeting seniors across state lines

Also important:

• Choose email providers with strong security and spam filtering.
• Make sure all devices (phones, tablets, computers) are password-locked.
• Set devices to update automatically to patch security gaps.
• Change the router’s default password and secure the Wi-Fi network.

Also read: FBI uncovers genius email scams—protect your inbox now

Create a device checklist

Make a list of every connected device in use.

This includes phones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, and even voice assistants.

Ensure each is up to date, locked, and protected.



Also read: Maryland man loses $40K to convincing scam—here’s how to protect yourself

Consider financial safeguards

Money-related scams can be devastating.

Some banks let you add a "trusted contact" to flag suspicious activity without giving access.

You can also explore senior-focused fraud monitoring services for extra peace of mind.

Smart habits to practice daily

• Question any urgent or emotional requests for money.
• Avoid oversharing online—keep personal details private.
• Shred any documents with sensitive info before discarding.

Helping seniors stay safe online doesn’t mean limiting their independence.

It means giving them tools and support to navigate technology with confidence.

By being proactive, patient, and informed, families can make the digital world a safer, more empowering space for older adults.

Read next: This online scam completely drained her bank account—Here’s how you can avoid the same disaster


Have you or someone you love dealt with an online scam? What tips or tools do you use to stay safe? Share your advice in the comments below—your story could help someone else avoid becoming a victim.