3 Tech Scams Senior Citizens Should Watch Out For This Week
by Greg Whalen, Technology Safety Expert for Seniors
Technology has made life easier—but it has also opened the door for smarter, faster-moving scammers. Seniors are often targeted because scammers assume they’re polite, trusting, and less familiar with digital tricks. Here are the three scams doing the most damage right now, and how to stay protected.
1. The “Your Account Is Locked” Email Scam
This is one of the most common scams targeting seniors today.
How it works:
You receive an email claiming to be from Amazon, Apple, your bank, or even the USPS. It says your account is locked, your package is on hold, or there’s “suspicious activity.” There’s a big button that says “Fix Now”.
Once you click, the scammer steals your password—or installs malicious software.
Signs it’s a scam:
- The email has small spelling or grammar errors
- The sender address looks strange
- It tries to scare you into acting fast
- The link doesn’t go to the real website
How to stay safe:
Never click links inside unexpected emails. Instead, open your browser, go directly to the company’s real website, and check from there.
2. The Fake Tech Support Phone Call
This scam is exploding right now because scammers know seniors often trust a calm voice on the phone.
How it works:
You get a phone call from someone claiming to be “Microsoft,” “Apple,” or “your internet provider.” They say your computer is hacked and they need remote access to fix it.
Once you give them access, they install fake problems and charge hundreds—or steal files, passwords, or tax information.
Red flags:
- Real companies never call you proactively
- They ask you to install software like TeamViewer or AnyDesk
- They pressure you to act immediately
How to stay safe:
Hang up. Call your real tech provider or someone you trust—never the number they give you.
3. The “Someone You Love Is in Trouble” Scam
Emotion is the power behind this one, and it’s highly effective.
How it works:
You receive a call, text, or email from someone pretending to be your grandson, granddaughter, or a police officer. They claim a family member is in an accident, in jail, or needs help urgently—and you must send money immediately.
Key warning signs:
- They insist you keep the call secret
- They ask for gift cards, wire transfers, or cash
- The caller sounds distressed, whispered, or muffled
- The story changes if you ask questions
How to stay safe:
Always hang up and call your family directly. Scammers rely on panic—slow down, verify, and never send money without confirming.
For seniors in Rumson, Little Silver, Fair Haven, or Red Bank, NJ who want help staying safe online, I provide personalized technology support and guidance. Learn how to protect yourself from scams, secure your devices, and confidently navigate digital tools.
📞 Contact me today to schedule a session and get help staying safe with technology.
