Protecting Your Parents & Family From Scams
If you're worried about a parent or older relative being targeted by scammers, you're not alone. Here's how to help protect them without damaging your relationship.
Educational service. We do not recover funds. No legal/financial advice.
Why Older Adults Are Targeted
Scammers specifically target older adults because they often have retirement savings, are more trusting of authority figures, may be less familiar with digital red flags, and are sometimes isolated. Understanding this helps you protect them without making them feel judged.
- •Financial stability: Retirement savings and home equity make attractive targets
- •Trusting nature: Grew up in a time when people were more trustworthy
- •Digital unfamiliarity: May not recognize phishing emails or fake websites
- •Social isolation: Loneliness makes romance and friendship scams more effective
Warning Signs Someone May Be Getting Scammed
- ⚠️Increased secrecy about finances or online activity
- ⚠️Unexplained large withdrawals or wire transfers
- ⚠️Receiving frequent calls from unknown numbers
- ⚠️Talking about a new 'friend' they've never met in person
- ⚠️Sudden interest in gift cards or cryptocurrency
- ⚠️Becoming defensive when you ask about their finances
- ⚠️Receiving unexpected packages or gifts
- ⚠️Changes in mood—excitement followed by anxiety
How to Have the Conversation
The key is approaching with empathy, not judgment. Scam victims often feel embarrassed, and a harsh reaction will make them less likely to tell you next time.
Tips for a Supportive Conversation
- 1Start with empathy: 'Scammers are very sophisticated—even experts get fooled.'
- 2Share stories from the news rather than lecturing directly.
- 3Focus on specific tactics to watch for, not their judgment.
- 4Practice saying 'I'll call you back' to any unexpected request.
- 5Make it easy for them to come to you with questions—no shame, no blame.
Setting Up Protections
Set Up Call Blocking
Help them install call-blocking apps and register with the Do Not Call Registry to reduce scam calls.
Enable Account Alerts
Set up text or email alerts for large transactions on their bank accounts and credit cards.
Create a Verification System
Agree on a family code word to verify identity, and establish that they should always call back on a known number.
Keep Communication Open
Regular check-ins without judgment make it easier for them to ask questions before acting on suspicious requests.
If They've Already Been Scammed
- 1Don't blame them. Scammers are professionals—shame only makes things worse and may prevent them from telling you in the future.
- 2Help them secure accounts. Change passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and check for unauthorized access.
- 3Contact their bank. Report the fraud immediately—some transactions may be recoverable if reported quickly.
- 4Report to authorities. File reports with the FTC, local police, and relevant agencies to help prevent others from being victimized.