Scams against seniors
New Zealand’s elderly are often scam targets. Uncover common scams and learn how to keep your loved ones safe in today’s digital age
In New Zealand, our elderly population holds a special place. They’re the pillars of our communities, the keepers of stories, and have contributed immensely to the nation’s growth. Unfortunately, their trust and sometimes limited digital knowledge make them prime targets for scams and frauds. While we often think of scams as a distant concern, the reality is they are a pressing issue right here in our backyard. We must recognize this threat, be informed about its various forms, and take actionable steps to safeguard our seniors. This guide aims to shed light on this concerning trend, highlighting ways to prevent our beloved older generation from becoming victims.
Common scams
Elderly individuals, with their inherent trust and sometimes limited tech know-how, are prime targets for a myriad of scams in New Zealand. Let’s explore the expansive array of deceptive strategies that aim to exploit our senior citizens:
- Phone Deceptions:
- Description: Fraudsters approach the elderly over the phone, impersonating reputable businesses or charities.
- Warning Indicators: Unexpected calls, forceful sales pitches, and immediate payment demands.
- Prize Scams:
- Description: Older individuals are misled about winning substantial prizes but need to pay upfront to claim them.
- Warning Indicators: Requests for initial payments, banking details, and urgency tactics.
- Email Frauds:
- Description: Crafty emails attempt to coax seniors into divulging personal details or accessing harmful links.
- Warning Indicators: Generalised greetings, typographical issues, and unknown email origins.
- Unsolicited Home Maintenance:
- Description: Individuals pose as technicians, suggesting unnecessary home repairs.
- Warning Indicators: Random house visits, no formal agreements, and upfront cash demands.
- Misleading Financial Proposals:
- Description: Elderly are tricked into entering unfavourable financial agreements.
- Warning Indicators: Promises of unrealistic returns and pressure to make hasty decisions.
- Healthcare & Medication Frauds:
- Description: Fraudsters push counterfeit health products or offer ‘free’ check-ups to gather personal data.
- Warning Indicators: Unknown product names and dispensing meds without valid prescriptions.
- The Grandparent Con:
- Description: A scammer feigns being a grandchild in trouble, seeking urgent monetary help.
- Warning Indicators: Emotional appeals, inconsistent stories, and secrecy requests.
- Romance Scams:
- Description: Elderly individuals are lured into online romantic relationships and then manipulated for money.
- Warning Indicators: Too-good-to-be-true profiles, rapid relationship progression, and frequent money requests.
- Computer Hacking & Tech Support:
- Description: Scammers claim the senior’s computer is compromised and offer fake tech support, often gaining access to personal data.
- Warning Indicators: Unsolicited tech support calls, unknown software installations, and requests for remote access.
- Unwanted Subscriptions/Trials:
- Description: Elders are signed up for subscriptions or trials they didn’t request, leading to unexpected charges.
- Warning Indicators: Unrecognised charges, services, or goods, and difficulties canceling.
- Fake Invoices:
- Description: Seniors receive bogus bills for products or services they never acquired.
- Warning Indicators: Unfamiliar company names, discrepancies in billed amounts, and vague service descriptions.
- Social Media Scams:
- Description: Deceptive strategies on platforms like Facebook or Twitter, where seniors might be tricked by fake news, counterfeit products, or phony friend requests.
- Warning Indicators: Unexpected friend requests, sensationalist news stories, and online shops with too-good-to-be-true deals.
To protect our seniors, awareness is crucial. Being informed about these scams and their tell-tale signs is the first defense line. Remember, skepticism can be a useful tool—especially when a deal appears overly favorable.
How to protect yourself
In an age where scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and prevalent, safeguarding oneself is of paramount importance. Especially for the elderly in New Zealand, who are often prime targets, self-protection requires both awareness and proactive measures.
Firstly, education plays a pivotal role. Staying informed about the most common scams can prepare you for encounters with potential fraudsters. Recognise the warning signs, be it unsolicited calls from ‘official’ agencies or emails urging immediate action on an account you don’t remember opening.
Another essential strategy involves regular scrutiny of financial statements and credit card bills. Your bank should inform you of unusual activity, but you should also regularly check. Any unfamiliar transaction, however small, should be flagged and discussed with your bank. Make sure you call the bank number, not just any number that someone calls you on. Modern banking apps often offer real-time alerts for transactions, which can be an invaluable tool for keeping track.
Open communication is also a potent shield against scams. If you ever feel uncertain about an offer, deal, or unexpected message, discuss it with a trusted family member or friend. Sometimes, a second opinion can offer clarity and prevent potential pitfalls. Remember if things are too good to be true, it is probably not true.
Moreover, be cautious about sharing personal information. Whether online or offline, always think twice before giving out your details, especially in situations where you haven’t initiated contact. If you are unsure they are legitimate, you can always ring them back on the official number listed on their website. As an example if someone from Spark rings you up about an issue with your service, you can say that you will call the Spark help desk back at a later time. When calling back look up the Spark website to find the helpdesk number to call.
Lastly, leverage the power of technology. Secure passwords, two-factor authentication, and reliable anti-virus software can bolster your defense against cyber threats. Remember, in the fight against scams, vigilance and a healthy dose of skepticism are your best allies. Don’t hesitate to question, verify, and when in doubt, steer clear.
Reporting Scams
Should you ever fall prey to or identify a potential scam, it’s crucial to know where to turn for reporting. Different agencies cater to varying types of scams:
- If you encounter issues related to cyber security, the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) NZ or Netsafe are your go-to agencies.
- Suspect deceptive commercial activities? The Commerce Commission is equipped to handle such concerns.
- In cases involving questionable banking activities or credit card charges, your first point of contact should always be your bank.
- For unsolicited or suspicious emails and text messages, the Department of Internal Affairs can provide assistance.
And remember, if you believe your identity has been compromised or have been a victim of fraud, it’s essential to immediately contact the police.