seniors cybersecurity blog.
Seniors are increasingly targeted by scammers who use phone calls, emails, and even AI-generated voices to trick them. This section is designed to help older adults and their families to recognize common scams, stay alert, and protect themselves online. Fraud and cybercrime cost Canadians more than $630 million in 2024, with many of the victims being seniors.
The “Bank Investigator” Scam: A Phone Call That Can Empty Your Account
If you get a call saying your bank account was “compromised” and the caller claims to be a bank fraud investigator, slow down.
Online Shopping Safety for Seniors
Online shopping can be convenient, cheaper, and easier than going store to store. It is also a favorite target for scammers because they can hide behind fake websites, fake ads, and urgent messages that push you to act fast.
How to Create a Strong Password
A strong password protects your email, banking, shopping, and social accounts. The goal is not “fancy”. The goal is long, unique, and hard to guess.
Artificial Inteligence (AI) & Fake Content. New Scams You Need to Know
Artificial Intelligence (AI) can now create fake voices, videos, and text that look and sound real.
Romance & Friendship Scams. Protecting Your Heart and Wallet
Scammers create fake online profiles on Facebook, WhatsApp, or dating sites.
The Grandparent Scam
The “grandparent scam” targets seniors by pretending to be a loved one in distress - usually a grandchild.
The Fake Tech Support Scam “Your Computer Has a Virus!”
Scammers call pretending to be from Microsoft, Apple, or your internet provider.
The Prize & Lottery Scam. “Congratulations! You’ve Won!”
You receive a letter, email, or phone call claiming you’ve won a jackpot, cruise, or luxury car.
Email & Text Phishing - Don’t Take the Bait
Phishing emails and texts look like they come from your bank, CRA, or delivery company.