New Online Scams Target Seniors – and 10 Ways to Beat Them

Cybersecurity expert Scotty Ward identified the most treacherous online and social media scams that swindlers use to rip off seniors. Ward highlighted 10 practical steps to defeat the scams.

The scams are so devious that victims don’t even realize they’ve been robbed. Speaking at the UA’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute in Tucson, Ward is a founder of the Cybersecurity Sensei Tech Team.

Scammers viciously target older people, particularly those aged 60 and older, who lost over $3.4 billion to fraud in 2023.

Arizona has 1.5 million registered voters aged 60+, or roughly 30% to 35% of the state’s voters. But older Arizonans vote at much higher rates than younger groups—nearly 80% turnout among 65+ voters. Seniors are consistently described as one of the largest and most reliable voting blocs in the state

Here are Ward’s top ten tips:

1. Don’t click Unsubscribe when you get an obvious scam email or text. All this does is confirm that the email account is working and that the recipient responded. If you’re unsure about a text or email, click Block and mark it as Spam or Phishing. Extra credit: Forward the message to the Anti-Phishing Working Group (ReportPhishing@APWG.ORG) as well.

2. Reboot your modem. Just as you change your furnace filters every 90 days, set a quarterly reminder to unplug your home’s internet modem/router, wait a few seconds, and plug it back in. This small act can help remove any malicious content that may have been installed.

3. Use a pass-phrase instead of a password. Longer is stronger. Stop using a one-word password. Instead, use a pass phrase, several words pushed together. Example: OakStreetFireHydrant7! or $3BucksForThePirateHat. Online systems can accommodate passphrases of 50+ characters, and longer passphrases are mathematically more secure.

4. Use Passkeys. When you log into a website or app, if you are not automatically prompted, select “Sign in with a passkey” or “Try another way.” Apple, Microsoft, and Google all agree: passkeys are better, safer, and simpler than passwords. Search for the steps to enable passkeys on your devices and accounts. Click here for video instructions.

5. Upgrade to Windows 11. Among all computer owners, 71% use Windows. Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025, and  Windows 11 is necessary for future security updates. It includes Smart App Control, which blocks untrusted or unsigned applications, significantly reducing the risk of malware infections. The built-in Microsoft Defender SmartScreen warns users when they enter credentials on malicious apps or websites. BitLocker device encryption protects data if the device is stolen or lost. Click here to download Windows 11.

6. Close your unused accounts. If you are no longer using that old department store, social media, or gas station account, close it (don’t just delete the icon). Unused accounts can remain open for years, with your personal contact information, until you intentionally close them.

7. Freeze your credit reports today. Recent massive data breaches have already leaked most of your personal data. All three credit reporting agencies recommend you contact them and freeze your accounts, so new accounts can’t be opened without your direct involvement. Simply log on to  www.usa.gov/credit-freeze.

8. No more swipe-up to unlock your computer/tablet/smartphone. Secure it instead by setting a PIN, enabling facial recognition, or using a fingerprint unlock. This approach is simple, yet secure.

9. Don’t use Zelle to pay someone you don’t know. Zelle is for family, friends and businesses you know and trust, not for marketplace strangers. Treat Zelle like cash. If a text or email offers you a fabulous deal if you act now and pay by Zelle, don’t do it. The scammer will keep your money and never send anything.

10. Don’t fall for the “You have a virus!” Scam. You may get a text, email or giant yellow “Alert” that covers your computer screen, saying your computer has been hacked. The scammer will string you along until you give them remote access to your computer. They will discover your passwords and bank accounts and transfer thousands of dollars out. Never click on virus alerts, even if they look like they come from your computer company or an anti-virus protection company.

Key details regarding scams against older adults

• Most Targeted Age: While 50-59-year-olds are targeted, the highest risk and financial losses are concentrated among individuals 60 and older.
• Why They Are Targeted: Scammers exploit a greater level of trust, politeness, and potential cognitive decline. They often use fear tactics (impersonating law enforcement or banks) or emotional manipulation (a grandchild in distress).
• Top schemes include imposter scams, sweepstakes/lottery fraud, and romance scams, often initiated via online platforms.

From 2020 to 2024, reports of seniors losing $100,000 or more increased eightfold. Follow Ward’s 10 tips above and don’t be a victim.