Courtesy of Travelers Insurance
Cell phone scams are common and, unfortunately, senior citizens often are a target for cybercrime perpetrated through smartphones. Understanding the technology at your fingertips and knowing how to recognize potentially harmful information can help you identify and avoid fraudulent activities. Learn how to keep yourself and your finances safe with these tips:
Be Aware: 6 Common Against Seniors
Knowing the common scams that target seniors can help you learn how to avoid them. Learning more will also aid you in determining if you or an elderly loved one might already be a victim. Here are examples of common smartphone fraud scams on the elderly:1
1. Romance Scams
In a romance scam, the scammer contacts the senior through email, social media or direct messaging in an attempt to establish a connection. In 2020 alone, American seniors lost $139 million as a result of romance scams.2 These scammers take advantage of seniors who feel lonely or isolated. Carrying on a phony romantic virtual relationship with the senior until they’ve gained trust and affection, the scammer then asks for money under false pretenses. They may convince you or your loved one to pay for their travel or help them through a financial crisis. This can continue for as long as the senior is willing to continue sending money.
2. Technology Troubleshooting, Repair & Support Scams
In these scams, the culprit poses as a tech…
