What steps can I take to help an elderly loved one avoid scams?

Understand Common Scams

One of the first steps in helping an elderly loved one avoid scams is understanding the common types of scams that target seniors. Fraudulent schemes may include phishing emails, fake phone calls claiming to be from government agencies such as HMRC, or even lottery and prize scams. By familiarising yourself with these scams, you can better educate your loved one.

Increasing Awareness through Education

Education is key in preventing scams. Discuss with your elderly loved one about the dangers of sharing personal information over the phone or online. Encourage them to question unexpected requests for money or personal details. You can also share resources from reputable organisations such as Age UK or the UK Financial Conduct Authority, which provide updated information on current scams.

Promote Safe Online Practices

Ensure that your elderly loved one’s online activities are secure. Help them set strong, unique passwords for their online accounts and enable two-factor authentication where possible. Install reliable antivirus software on their devices to protect against malware. Educate them to recognize phishing emails and suspicious links. Regularly remind them not to click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.

Encourage Communication

Encourage open communication about financial matters and any unusual activities. Make sure they feel comfortable discussing suspicious correspondence or requests with you or another trusted person. Regular conversations may uncover potential scams early and allow for timely interventions.

Register for Preference Services

Consider registering your elderly loved one's phone with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) in the UK to reduce unsolicited sales calls. Also, advise them to opt-out of unnecessary mailing lists and use tools to block unwanted emails. These measures can help minimize exposure to potential scams.

Regularly Monitor Financial Statements

Regularly reviewing bank statements and financial records is crucial to catch any unauthorized transactions early. Help your elderly loved one set up notifications for any unusual activity. If possible, set up online banking access with permission so you can assist in monitoring their accounts.

Report Suspected Scams

If your loved one has been targeted or scammed, report the incident to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre. Reporting not only aids in potentially recovering lost funds but also helps authorities in tracking and stopping fraudsters. Encourage your loved one to talk about the experience so that similar scams can be prevented in the future.