Technology has completely transformed all lives, touching every aspect and changing how people carry out daily tasks. However, as technology advances, scammers also adapt, finding new ways to exploit people through their devices. World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, which took place in June, was perfect opportunity to refresh on how to protect seniors from fraud.

Unfortunately, seniors are often targeted by scammers who take advantage of their trust, financial stability, and lack of familiarity with new technologies. This post will provide some tips to help safeguard senior citizens from fraud.

Scammers employ various tactics to deceive their victims, including identity theft, sweepstake scams, investment fraud, and telemarketing fraud. By equipping seniors with knowledge, you can help them recognize and avoid these scams.

Here are some practical tips to keep the seniors in your life safe and informed:

1. Approach unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages requesting personal information or offering deals/discounts with caution. Always verify the authenticity of such communications before sharing sensitive information.
2. Develop a relationship with your financial institution. The employees there can offer guidance and keep an eye on your accounts for any suspicious activity.
3. Stay updated on best practices for using technology safely. Since using technology is unavoidable, it’s crucial to understand how to do so securely. Implementing strong passwords, keeping software updated, and being wary of unfamiliar links or attachments are a few important practices to follow.
4. Protect your personal information. Avoid sharing sensitive details like Social Security numbers, bank account information, or credit card details unless you have verified the trustworthiness of the recipient. Scammers often use tricks to extract personal information, so it’s vital to be cautious when sharing such details over the phone or online.
5. Stay engaged socially. Participate in community activities, join senior centers, or connect with friends and family. Social interactions can provide a support system that helps identify and prevent potential financial abuse.

If you’re looking for more tips on avoiding fraud, you can click here to visit the ABA’s website for information on identifying imposter scams.

By understanding the severity of this issue and empowering seniors with knowledge, we can work together to protect everyone from fraud through technology. Building strong relationships with financial institutions, using technology safely, and raising awareness can create a shield against fraud. Let’s join forces to make a meaningful difference in safeguarding the financial security and well-being of our seniors.

If you’re interested in finding an account that suits your needs, First Bank offers accounts for all stages of life. You can explore the options by clicking here.

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