Protecting Seniors from Online Scams

Seniors are frequently targeted by aggressive phone, email, and computer pop-up scams. Learn the warning signs and how to help your family stay safe.

Reviewed July 10, 2026

Common Scams Targeting Seniors

Scammers use emotional manipulation, fear, and technical jargon to confuse victims. The most common varieties include:

• Fake Tech Support Pop-ups: A loud screen notification claims your computer is infected with viruses and lists a toll-free number to call. Treat unsolicited browser warnings and phone numbers as suspicious; close the browser and seek support through a vendor's official website if needed.
• Grandparent Scams: A caller pretends to be a grandchild or relative who is in urgent trouble (jail, accident, stranded) and needs money wired or sent via gift cards immediately.
• Impersonation of Government Agencies: Calls or emails claiming to be from the IRS, Social Security Administration, or utility providers demanding payment or threatening arrest.
• Sweepstakes & Lottery Scams: Notifications claiming you have won a major prize, but you must first pay taxes or processing fees to collect it.

Simple Safety Guidelines

• Never Provide Remote Access: Never allow anyone who calls you out of the blue to connect to your computer, even if they claim to be from Microsoft, Google, or your bank.
• Verify Callers Independently: If a relative or agency calls with an urgent request, hang up and call them back on their known, verified number.
• Question Unusual Payment Demands: Be suspicious of unexpected or urgent demands to pay by gift card, wire transfer, payment app such as Zelle, or cryptocurrency, especially when the sender insists on one method or tells you not to verify the request. Some legitimate transactions use these methods, so independently confirm the recipient and purpose before paying.
• Use Current Browser Protections: Keep the browser and operating system updated, enable built-in protections against deceptive sites and pop-ups, and install extensions only from the browser's official extension store after reviewing the developer and requested permissions.

Source

• FTC: How To Avoid a Scam

Decker Tech Services helps families in the Highland area secure computers, set up parental and security controls, and educate users on recognizing safety indicators. Contact us today to schedule direct, patient support.