Safer Internet Day: Protecting Seniors from Online Scams
The internet helps us stay connected with family, manage our bank accounts, shop online, and track deliveries.
But sadly, scammers know this too.
Many scams today are designed to look real. They pretend to be from your bank, the post office, a delivery company, or even your family.
This guide is written in simple, clear language to help you stay safe and confident online.
Why Seniors Are Often Targeted
Scammers target seniors because:
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They often have savings or pensions.
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They are polite and trusting.
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They may not have grown up with digital technology.
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They may worry easily when they receive urgent messages.
Remember:
If someone is pressuring you to act quickly, that’s usually a red flag.
The Most Common Scams (And How They Work)
1. Fake Bank Alerts
What it looks like:
You receive a text or email saying:
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“Unusual activity detected.”
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“Your account will be frozen.”
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“Click here to verify immediately.”
It looks urgent and scary.
What really happens:
The link takes you to a fake website that steals your login details.
What to do instead:
✔ Do NOT click the link.
✔ Do NOT call the number in the message.
✔ Call your bank using the number on the back of your bank card.
Your real bank will never ask for:
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Your full password
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Your PIN
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A one-time security code sent to your phone
2. Fake Delivery Messages
What it looks like:
A message says:
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“Your parcel is waiting.”
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“Pay £1.99 to release your package.”
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“Delivery failed. Click to reschedule.”
Even if you didn’t order anything, it may look convincing.
What really happens:
The small payment request is a trick to steal your card details.
What to do instead:
✔ If you didn’t order anything, ignore it.
✔ Check directly on the official website of:
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Royal Mail
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DPD
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Evri
✔ Type the website address yourself. Never click the link in the message.
✔ It may not be too obvious, but check for misspellings in terms of the sender and the website, that’s a big indication that it is a scam.
What it looks like:
You receive a message like:
“Hi Grandma, I lost my phone. This is my new number. I need money urgently.”
What to do:
✔ Stop.
✔ Call your family member on their usual number.
✔ Do not send money based only on a message.
Scammers count on you acting quickly because you care.
The 5 Golden Rules for Staying Safe Online
You can print this section and keep it near your computer.
1. Slow Down
Scammers want you to panic. Take a breath to assess things more clearly
2. Never Click in a Rush
Always type website addresses yourself.
3. Don’t Share Private Information
Never share:
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Passwords
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PIN numbers
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One-time security codes
4. If It Feels Scary, It’s Probably Fake
Always remember, real companies do not threaten you. If it feels weird, don’t ever hesitate to check.
5. Ask Someone You Trust
It’s always okay to double-check with:
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A family member
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A friend
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Your bank
There is no shame in asking.
What To Do If You Think You Clicked a Scam
Don’t panic. Act quickly:
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Disconnect from Wi-Fi.
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Call your bank immediately.
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Change your passwords.
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Ask a trusted person to help check your device.
The faster you act, the better.
Final Thoughts: Confidence, Not Fear
The internet is not the enemy. It’s a wonderful tool for staying connected, and you deserve to use it confidently and safely.
On Safer Internet Day, remember:
You are never “too old” to learn and never too smart to be careful.
Download Your Free Scam Checklist (Printable PDF)
We’ve created a simple, easy-to-read checklist that you can print and keep near your:
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Computer
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Tablet
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Phone
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Desk
👉 Click here to download your free printable Scam Checklist for Seniors (PDF)
Original post here: Safer Internet Day: Protecting Seniors from Online Scams
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