National Grandparents’ Day is more than a celebration of family bonds. It’s also a reminder of how much today’s grandparents navigate a world very differently than the ones they grew up in — especially online.
The digital landscape is full of risks, and unfortunately, older adults are now among the primary targets for scammers.
From fake bank emails to fraudulent tech support calls, criminals rely on trust and routine. For seniors who didn’t grow up with smartphones and social media, these scams can feel convincing.
That’s why this holiday is not only about gratitude and love but also about giving the gift of digital protection.
Below, we break down the five scams hitting seniors hardest today, explain why they work, and show you how to protect the people you love.
Table of Contents
Why Seniors Are The Main Targets
Scammers don’t pick their victims randomly. They deliberately focus on groups they believe are most likely to trust them — and least likely to fight back.
Key reasons older adults are targeted:
- Trust in authority. When someone says they’re from Medicare or a bank, it feels legitimate.
- Limited exposure to digital threats. A polished phishing page can look indistinguishable from the real one.
- Financial stability. Retirement accounts and home equity make seniors attractive targets.
- Emotional vulnerability. Loneliness makes romance scams especially powerful.
The numbers: The FBI reports that older Americans lost $4.885 billion in 2024, a 43% jump from 2023. Average losses per victim are far higher than in younger groups, showing how aggressively scammers pursue seniors.
Takeaway: This is not only about money — it’s about dignity, safety, and independence. Without awareness and tools, seniors remain the easiest prey for digital criminals.
Scam #1. Phishing Emails
Email is still the number-one entry point for scams. For seniors who rely on email for family updates, medical notices, and banking, the risk is huge.
How it works: Messages appear to come from banks, delivery services, or even relatives. They urge the recipient to “confirm your account” or “update payment information.” The link leads to a fake site that steals login details.
Why it works: The branding looks professional, the language is urgent, and the request seems routine.
Why it matters for seniors: Many older adults treat email as trustworthy. Clicking just once can compromise finances, medical data, or personal identity.
What to do:
- Don’t click links in unsolicited emails.
- Type web addresses directly into the browser.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all important accounts.
Takeaway: Phishing works because it feels ordinary. Families can protect seniors by encouraging them to pause, verify, and never act on email pressure.
Scam #2. Fake Tech Support
Technology is intimidating for many older adults. That makes “tech support” fraud one of the most profitable schemes targeting them.
How it works: A pop-up shouts: “Your computer is infected!” Or the phone rings with a “Microsoft technician” claiming urgent issues. Victims are asked to allow remote access or pay for repairs.
Why it works: Fear is powerful. A calm voice offering solutions feels like relief.
The numbers: Tech support scams cost seniors nearly $1 billion in 2024, making it one of the costliest forms of fraud.
Why it matters for seniors: These scams don’t just drain money. They erode confidence, leaving seniors embarrassed and hesitant to use their devices.
What to do:
- Close pop-ups immediately and restart the device.
- Never grant remote access to unsolicited callers.
- Only use official support contacts listed on company websites.
Takeaway: Fear-based scams succeed because they push people to act fast. The best defense is slowing down and remembering that real tech companies never call out of the blue.
Scam #3. Romance Scams
Everyone needs connection. For widowed or single seniors, online relationships can feel like hope — and scammers know it.
How it works: Fraudsters build an emotional bond online, sometimes over weeks or months. Then they create an “emergency” and ask for money: for a ticket, medical procedure, or debt.
Why it works: Emotional manipulation bypasses logic. Scammers invest time to build trust, then strike.
The numbers: Romance scams drained $389 million from older adults in 2024. Individual cases often involve six-figure losses.
Why it matters for seniors: Beyond financial ruin, romance scams inflict shame and heartbreak. Victims often don’t report them, making the problem worse.
What to do:
- Be cautious of relationships that move too fast.
- Never send money to someone you’ve never met in person.
- Use reverse image search to check suspicious profile photos.
Takeaway: Romance scams don’t just steal money — they steal dignity. Talking openly about them removes the stigma and gives seniors the tools to say no.
Scam #4. Medicare & Government Impersonation
Seniors trust Medicare and other government programs. Scammers use that trust as their weapon.
How it works: Calls or emails claim to be from Medicare, Social Security, or the IRS. Victims are told they need a new card, must pay fees, or risk losing benefits.
Why it works: The agency names are familiar. The authority sounds real. Fear of losing benefits drives compliance.
The numbers: Impersonation fraud exploded between 2020 and 2024, with losses over $445 million in high-dollar cases alone, according to the FTC.
Why it matters for seniors: These scams rob more than money. They create anxiety around essential programs seniors depend on daily.
What to do:
- Know the rule: Medicare never calls to ask for payment or details.
- Hang up and report the attempt.
- Verify through official .gov websites.
Takeaway: Government impostor scams thrive on urgency. The right response is simple: hang up and never engage.
Scam #5. Robocalls & Telemarketing Tricks
Phones remain the most direct way to reach seniors, which is why scammers rely on robocalls and telemarketing.
How it works: Automated or live calls claim you’ve won a prize, owe taxes, or need urgent action. Others pitch fraudulent investments or products.
Why it works: Calls sound official or exciting, and many older adults feel pressured to be polite and listen.
The numbers: By early 2025, older Americans had already reported hundreds of millions in robocall-related losses, showing this threat is accelerating.
Why it matters for seniors: Unlike online scams, phone calls are personal and immediate. The voice on the line can override caution.
What to do:
- Use call-blocking tools from carriers.
- Hang up — don’t engage or explain.
- Never share personal or financial details over the phone.
Takeaway: The safest answer to a suspicious call is silence. Ending the call is not rude — it’s protection.
Your Grandparents’ Day Safety Checklist
Before acting on any unexpected message or call, ask three questions:
- Was I expecting this? If not, be cautious.
- Do I know the sender or caller? Double-check details.
- Am I being rushed? Take your time to think. Pressure is the #1 red flag.
This checklist should eventually become second nature, like buckling a seatbelt. Simple steps, repeated often, save lives and savings.
Final Takeaway
This Grandparents’ Day, honoring older generations means more than gifts and gratitude. It means protection.
Talk openly about scams. Set up two-factor authentication. Walk through suspicious emails or calls together. Remind your grandparents that asking for help is not weakness — it’s wisdom.
The greatest gift you can give isn’t flowers or cards. It’s peace of mind — and the confidence that your grandparents can navigate today’s digital world safely.
Keep these tips handy, share them with the ones you love, and follow us on Facebook to learn more pieces of advice that keep your family safer online.
At Futureproof, Kevin makes online safety feel human with clear steps, real examples, and zero fluff. He holds a degree in information technology and studies fraud trends to keep his tips up-to-date.
In his free time, Kevin plays with his cat, enjoys board-game nights, and hunts for New York’s best cinnamon rolls.
